As I conduct workshops and coach, I often work with newly promoted managers who are unsure of the steps to become a leader. In terms of my book, “How to Earn the Gift of Discretionary Effort,” the transformation is from manager to charismatic leader. A charismatic leader is a person people CHOOSE to follow, not HAVE to follow because she is the boss.
The role of a leader is to mobilize people to take actions that move the organization forward to meet organizational goals and objectives. By making the following traits part of your charismatic personality, you will uncover the WHY your employees CHOOSE to follow you.
1-Develop the ability to inspire.
Inspirational leaders give you a strong feeling of enthusiasm and a “Can-do” attitude as you tackle tough assignments. They avoid micromanaging but check in with you at regular intervals to find blocks to action they can remove. They encourage you every step of the way and praise you when the project is completed.
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” ~ John Quincy Adams-
2-Delegate with clarity.
To delegate with clarity, let them know exactly what you need done. Paint a picture of the finished product. Give them a reasonable deadline. After being clear about the desired end result, let them know you have faith in their ability to accomplish the task and tell them how the completed task fits in with organizational goals.
“The really expert riders of horses let the horse know immediately who is in control, but then guide the horse with loose reins and seldom use the spurs.” ~ Sandra Day O’Connor
3-Create an environment where workers can surface the truth as they see it.
People performing the work observe and experience daily work assignments with a different set of eyes than you as the manager. They will see problems, glitches, malfunctions and breakdowns whether these exist in the processes or in interactions with customers. Even if it is hard to hear the truth, the charismatic leader listens carefully and does not dismiss their concerns. The next step is to ask their advice on how to fix the problem, then evaluate the suggestion from a rational standpoint. If it does lead to improvements, implement immediately. If it is not workable, explain the reasons why.
“The truth is incontrovertible. Malice may attack it, ignorance may deride it, but in the end, there it is.” ~ Winston Churchill
These skills take practice and patience but bring you amazing results as you create rapport and loyalty with the employees you manage.
Karla offers Charismatic Keynotes, Workshops, and Coaching
Karla is an Atlanta-based Keynote Speaker. She can help you focus your team by consulting with you and providing activities and direction to your next retreat or quarterly meeting. Call 770-923-0883 to check the availability of her dates. She is also available for personal coaching.