The right leadership
WHAT does it take to get a work done at the right time and in the right way? One fine day you might find yourself being responsible for a work that needs the cooperation and assistance of a team that neither reports to you nor your boss! You might even end up with people who will never budge an inch even if it's an order that is coming their way. Such situations might become a little grueling, especially when you are not the boss or the boss who is just not the `bully' kind. These are the situations that put your leadership skills to test.
So, what do you need to possess or practice to be `the' influential leader? To make a good leader, you certainly need to live up to certain expectations and requirements of the company and your peers. Providing information, representing people, possessing a particular skill, a sense of accomplishment and security are some of the attributes that establish you as a leader. You must also make sure you actively participate in team works, do the necessary legwork, play fair and admit mistakes.
Though there are many traits, attitudes and abilities that can make one an influential leader, a clear ethical approach towards others will go a long way. A leader should always remember that high handedness doesn't work always and he cannot influence people with the power associated with his position. It is not as simple as it sounds. Instead, one should take time to understand the ground rules required of an influential leader and abide by those principles to make things possible. Here are some of them:
Even if you are the head of a team, you should be prepared to deal with anybody to get your work done. Forget about the person's position and have a neutral communication. Do not flaunt your own status. Just concentrate on what you need from him and get it done in the right possible way
Dealing with deadlines can be deadly. Forcing it on the people who work for you is not a good idea. In fact, it will do more harm than good. Have a clear idea of what you need and the amount of time required to accomplish the job. Then assign it to the person concerned. If you allow him to have a say in the job, you can expect wonders
Try and use your personal influence effectively. This makes people carry out the job because they want to and not because they have to. Here, no authority or manipulation is involved since the interaction is on a personal level
Make it a point, as a responsible leader, to seek suggestions and make your staff realise the value of their job. Value their suggestions and use them appropriately. Include them in your project; it will keep their spirits going and they may come up with some strategic planning methods that you may not be aware of! And, don't forget to ask for an opinion. Give credit if you value their opinion and always pat them on their back for the work well done. Credit is always necessary to keep people going
Provide a proper feedback. This is very vital for a leader. It will keep people connected to their work. Even if something goes wrong, be personal and positive. If you behave rudely, their ego will get hurt which doesn't bode well for the organisation Boss or no boss, if you need to be an influential leader and want to the people to give their best, you must master these leadership styles - your way. It will not only prove useful for you, but will be beneficial for the organisation. Take time and understand the importance to lead a better professional life.
SRINARDHANI J
Srinardhani.hyd@cnkonline.com
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