Key Points for Developing Your Inner Circle

One of the earliest leadership lessons I learned as a young college student was about developing your inner circle. Let me explain how I learned this vital lesson.

As a biology major, I was required to take analytical chemistry during my freshman year. Why the freshman year? Because it was considered to be a “weed out course” by the upperclassmen. They also told me not to worry because everyone fails the test, and the professor would grade on a curve. So, when they offered to help me prepare for the first test, I said okay.

Well, as you can imagine, only part of their information was correct. Yes, it was a “weed out course,” and yes, most of my classmates, including me, failed the test. While the professor graded on a curve, I still failed the test. After that experience, I joined a different study group.

Your inner circle has a profound impact on the trajectory of your career. The right people can provide you with diverse perspectives, teach you new ways of thinking and doing things, and inspire you to reach higher levels of achievement.

Conversely, the wrong people can mire you down in mediocrity. As John C. Maxwell aptly puts it in his book, The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership:

“The people closest to you determine your level of success.” -John C. Maxwell

Let’s explore how you can develop and leverage your inner circle to elevate your career.

So, who should be in your inner circle?

When selecting members for your inner circle, look for individuals who possess the following qualities:

1. High Influence with Others: Choose individuals who command respect and can influence others. Their influence can amplify your vision and goals within the organization.

2. Complementary Gifts: Seek out people who bring different strengths and skills to the table. These complementary gifts can create a well-rounded and dynamic team.

3. Strategic Positions: Include individuals who hold critical positions within the organization. Their strategic roles can provide you with insights and opportunities pivotal to your success.

4. Value Addition: Pick those who add value to you and the organization. Their contributions should enhance the overall performance and growth of the team.

5. Positive Impact: Ensure they positively impact other inner circle members. This creates a harmonious and productive environment where everyone can thrive.

So, let’s discuss Maxwell’s six essential traits to look for when assessing potential inner-circle candidates. These are:

1. Integrity: Integrity builds trust, the cornerstone of any successful relationship. Ensure that the people in your inner circle are honest and ethical.

2. Positive Attitude: A positive attitude is contagious and can uplift the entire team. Choose individuals who maintain optimism even in challenging times.

3. Value for Excellence: Surround yourself with people who strive for excellence in everything they do. This sets a high-performance standard for the entire group.

4. Flexibility: In a rapidly changing environment, flexibility is crucial. Select those who can adapt and respond to new situations effectively.

5. Loyalty: Loyalty fosters a sense of security and commitment within the team. Ensure that your inner circle members are loyal to you and the organization.

6. Value for People: Choose individuals who genuinely care for others. This creates a supportive and collaborative atmosphere that benefits everyone.

While these are considerable traits to look for, they are equally important to cultivate in your life. An inner circle only works effectively when everyone, despite their differences, strives to improve and contributes to the group.

So, how can you ensure your inner circle works for you? Here are some actionable steps:

1. Foster Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication among inner circle members. This helps people share ideas freely and resolve conflicts swiftly.

2. Set Clear Goals: Define common goals for the group. This will align everyone’s efforts toward achieving shared objectives.

3. Cultivate Mutual Respect: Promote respect for each other’s skills and contributions. Mutual respect enhances collaboration and productivity.

4. Encourage Continuous Learning: Create an environment where continuous learning and self-improvement are encouraged. This keeps the group dynamic and forward-thinking.

5. Recognize Contributions: Acknowledge and celebrate individual and team achievements. This boosts morale and motivates everyone to perform better.

Focusing on these elements can help you develop an inner circle that supports your career challenges and elevates you to new heights!

#EducationalLeader,

Kim

Click HERE to view my free masterclass on Success Strategies for Women in Leadership !

References

Corley, T. C. (2016). Change Your Habits, Change Your Life: Strategies that Transformed 177 Average People into Self-Made Millionaires. Rich Habits Institute.

Maxwell, J. C. (2007). The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership: Follow Them and People Will Follow You. Thomas Nelson.

The views shared in the Educational Leadership Moment are solely mine and do not reflect the positions of my employer or any entity within the local, state, or federal government sectors.