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Politicians…are they Leaders?

Immersed in the never ending onslaught of political rhetoric during this election cycle offers a wonderful opportunity for leadership research.  As I struggle with how to place my vote in the upcoming mid-term election and am forced to wade through the veneers of each candidate I use a short checklist.

Those that aspire to lead exhibit a few traits that make others willing to follow:

  1. Construction and clear communication of a compelling story.  Storytelling is crucial to leading.  Leaders capture attention and energy by truly understanding their audience and shaping their story in ways that compel others to follow.
  2. Understanding and managing complexity.  Today’s leader recognizes the speed of change in this century and has the ability to quickly appreciate and action plan against ever changing trends.
  3. Active listening.  Listening to others is crucial in my leaders.  Leaders don’t know everything and shouldn’t be so arrogant as to think they do.  By truly listening and actively engaging in dialogue with others leaders build a strong connection to their followers needs, perceptions and behaviors.
  4. Authenticity. My leaders are real people.  Leaders must participate in the group they intend to lead.  I look for leaders that shop at grocery stores, occasionally spill a drink or make a mistake.  Scripting makes me very nervous in leadership.  If my leader has trouble speaking extemporaneously, I fear they can not effectively make decisions.
  5. Value Empowerment.  My leaders use their knowledge to empower others, not manipulate others to act.  Success in leadership is defined by the success of their followers not personal accumulation of power and wealth.

Are politicians leaders?  How many political aspirants exhibit the traits demanded of leaders?  Most are great story tellers, some are even authentic but very few listen and empower.  I challenge everyone to answer the question that I ask myself during the election cycle.  Which of these candidates would I hire to lead my firm?

October 21, 2010 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a comment