5 Leadership Mantras for Politicians

Politics influence our life directly or indirectly be it economy, health, education or infrastructure. It is therefore important that our political leaders have good knowledge as well as leadership skills. In many a case, our political leaders do not have a clear understanding of what Leadership competencies are all about. Fortunately, these competencies are not different for political leaders. Leaders are leaders be it politics or any other field.

As I now engage closely with some political leaders, I realize that the leadership lessons I learned during my professional journey are also relevant for political leaders.

Without getting into complicated management school jargon let me share five basic leadership mantras I learned during the first leadership workshop I attended many years back at the beginning of my professional career. These remain so relevant for today’s political leaders.

1.      Challenge the Process: This is fundamental for organization progress. Leaders should critically look and review every process that is in place and a great leader will allow others to do the same. What was right for yesterday may not be right for tomorrow. So, this must be continuously challenged. This calls for a high level of engagement with the job one is doing. Challenging the process means doing different things and doing things differently. Its all about experimenting and taking risks. Also, one must keep in mind that this is about challenging the way we do things and not about challenging the individuals.

2.      Inspire a shared vision: A shared vision or a common goal is very important. As a matter of fact, this is what drives a team. A good leader always takes others on board and invite them to join hands for a common cause. It is important for a good leader to remain positive about the future, remain excited about future possibilities. He continuously forecasts what the future looks like for the team members.

3.      Enable and empower others to act: Good leaders never feel insecure about their position. They always empower others and involve their team members in planning and problem solving while making themselves available to the team members always for consultation and help if required. Leaders know that ultimately what matters is the result. Empowerment develops ownership among the team members. They feel trusted and respected. This improves the efficiency of the team manifold and multiplies the chances for success.

4.      Be transparent: While the team members are empowered to take decisions, it is critically important that the Leaders are transparent in their operation and communication. A good leader always sets an example for the team by demonstrating how to do things well and then leave it to the team members. They always practice the values they preach, clearly establish the rules of the game beforehand. Even if rules are changed it is always communicated transparently to all team members. It is important that the Leader clearly communicates to the team his expectations, sets clear achievable goals for the team and communicates regularly on the performance trend to all members to keep the excitement going.

5.      Encourage the heart: Motivated people work harder. A good leader knows how to encourage the heart of his team members. It is important that the team celebrates for every success. A Leader should always praise his people for a job well done. Never forget to say, ‘Thank You’. These two words are extremely powerful. A good leader will always be a cheerleader for the team.