Lead by Example: The Key to Effective Leadership

The Common Disconnect

Have you ever been told what to do, but felt completely lost on how to do it? This is a common issue in many companies, where leaders provide directives but fail to demonstrate the actions themselves. The result? A disconnect between management and operational teams, leading to confusion and inefficiency.

My Approach to Leadership

As a manager, I believe in leading by example. I make it a point to do what I expect others to do. One of the most effective ways I've found to foster a productive and cohesive team is by creating space for feedback. Inspired by the principles of Radical Candor, I encourage my team to speak openly and honestly. This practice has not only improved communication but has also built a culture of trust and continuous improvement.

The Power of Feedback

According to Kim Scott's Radical Candor, "Feedback is a gift." By modeling this behavior, I've shown my team that every opinion matters and that feedback is a pathway to growth.

Empowering Through Actions

During my Management 3.0 training with Angel Medina, I learned that leadership isn't just about giving orders but about empowering your team through actions. This approach has reinforced my belief in leading by example.

The Flight Levels Experience

Contrast this with my experience in a large company where a technique called Flight Levels was proposed. The idea was to enhance communication and streamline processes. However, the framework was only explained and presented without being implemented. The outcome? Everyone felt disconnected, unaware of what was happening within the company, and a significant gap emerged between management and the operational team.

The Impact of Non-Implementation

This gap resulted in broken communication channels and a pervasive sense of confusion. The lack of practical application of Flight Levels made it clear that merely presenting ideas without following through can lead to organizational disarray.

The Solution: Leading by Example

The solution is straightforward: Lead by example. If you want your team to adopt a new technique or behavior, you need to be the first to demonstrate it. Show them how it's done and be there to guide them through the process.

Closing Thoughts

By leading by example, you not only bridge the gap between management and operational teams but also create an environment of trust and collaboration. Remember, actions speak louder than words.