Thoughts - 2009

Transparency and Focus

 

Has leadership changed in the 21st century? In my experience as a leadership coach, I would have to say no. What has changed is the intensity to which the observer observes those who lead and influence.

 

Transparency

 A loud call for transparency causes us to ask what it really is. It is less about communicating everything you know and do and more about every behavior aligning with who you claim to be and what you stand for as a leader.

 

An important note: Leaders are not just those who are in management positions, but also those who have influence over others and the behavior of others.

 

Transparency does not always mean the people being led want to know everything. Transparency does mean that followers in the 21st century demand that their leader be worthy of their trust.

 

Focus

A self-aware leader is a selfless leader. An individual leader is best equipped to serve followers when confidently taking the time to personally grow and develop in order to continually support his focus in leading.

 

Foundationally important is who you are as an individual leader. Tactically important is how to succinctly express what it is you do as a leader – and claiming this impact with confidence.

 

This is focus; allowing the clarity of your intended impact to guide your decision making.

 

Prioritization does not lead to this kind of focus. This kind of focus yields effective prioritization. Simple is a strategy. A dedication to your unique focus leads you to the behaviors congruent with the story you desire to tell. When these behaviors match your intended impact you build trust and credibility.

 

Your unique focus becomes the advisor serving the stream of transparency created by your intent and expected by those you lead and influence.

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