How To Be A Leader Who Leads By Example

Everyone seems to talk about it, but, do we know how to do it?

Leading by example; the phrase has been used so much in management circles that I fear that it has lost its meaning. To be sure, there’s very little discussion about how a leader can lead by example. ?Consequently, I thought it might be time to change the situation. What follows are 10 behaviors that a leader can adopt to more effectively lead by example.

Top 10 List To Lead By Example

Leadership is a choice. We choose to lead.?Thus, to effectively lead by example, a leader must choose to behave in ways that inspires confidence and motivates team members to follow suit. My top 10 list of behaviors needed to productively lead by example, include:

1.?????Total Ownership: The best leaders take responsibility for their actions and decisions. They shift praise to their people and take the blame for any of their team’s shortcomings. Further, by setting an example for owning up to mistakes and learning from them, leaders encourage accountability among their people.

2.?????Courageous Commitment: A leader can set the bar for their team by demonstrating dedication and hard work. Similarly, by displaying courage in decision-making, taking calculated risks, and standing up for what is right we enable our teams to see what good looks like. This motivates the team to face challenges bravely. When leaders are actively and courageously engaged in their work, it motivates the team to be equally dedicated.

3.?????Positive Attitude: Maintain a positive outlook, even in challenging situations. Positivity is contagious and can boost morale within the team.

4.?????Balanced Life Integration: Leaders who prioritize their own well-being show that they care about the overall welfare of their team members, as well. The key, of course, is striking a balance in one’s life – show your people that there is enough time for work, play, family and friends by integrating all of the facets of your life in ways that can serve as a positive example.

5.?????Respectful Communication: Always message in ways that treat others with respect and dignity, regardless of their position or background. Additionally, be an active listener by practicing clear and effective communication. Indeed, leaders who communicate openly and honestly encourage transparent communication within the team.

6.?????Humble Integrity: Acknowledge achievements and contributions of team members, giving credit where it's due. Humble leaders create a collaborative and supportive atmosphere as long as they demonstrate honesty and ethical behavior in all actions.

7.?????Empathetic Adaptability: Exceptional leaders show empathy and understanding towards the needs and concerns of team members, while embracing change. ?This kind of flexibility in response to challenges provokes their team to be open to new ideas and innovation. This helps create a compassionate and caring work culture that can handle change without huge disruption.

8.?????Inclusive Teamwork: When leaders actively participate in collaborative efforts and demonstrate the importance of teamwork, they inspire a sense of unity among team members. Moreover, by promoting diversity and inclusion within the organization, they enable the expression of diverse perspectives which improves harmony and decision-making at the same time.

9.?????Continuous Growth: Exhibiting a commitment to personal and professional growth, a leader can set the example that shows that investing in development activities is worth their team’s time, too.

10.??Relentless Customer Focus: When leaders demonstrate a commitment to providing excellent service to customers, they show their people that customer satisfaction is a top priority. Of course, they put their people first and by taking care of them, they enhance how these same people deliver impeccable service to the customers that they support.

To Close

Remember, actions speak louder than words.

Indeed, words are not enough. People carefully watch how their leaders behave and act accordingly.

Thus, leading by example requires impeccable behavior. Truly, when leaders embody the values and behaviors they expect from others, they create a culture that fosters growth, loyalty, and high performance.

Isn’t that what business leadership is all about – being the example that delivers results!