Leading by example

“Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others, it is the only means.” — Albert Einstein

But what does it mean to truly lead by example? What attributes do great leaders exhibit when they are actively trying to lead by example?

We learn a great deal simply by watching others. This definitely holds true for the workplace as well, wherein each environment will have its own natural balance and way of operating. For the leaders who wish to leave a positive mark on their team and their workplace, they must be the ones to set an example for the rest of the team to uphold and follow.

For lasting change, leaders in the workplace must dedicate themselves to demonstrating exemplary leadership behaviours in the everyday working environment. Here are a few ways you can start leading by example today and inspire others to do as you do:

1.      Don’t ask others to do what you can’t, or won’t

This is a big one to remember. No matter how far you ascend in your career, you can still get stuck into the hard work with members of your team. When times get tough, your team will naturally begin to look to you for solutions and support. This sense of trust can be fostered by demonstrating that you are willing to do the hard work along with them.

2.      To be a great leader, you have to be accountable for yourself

Leaders and followers sometimes need to switch roles. An adaptable person needs to have all bases covered. This includes accepting the ultimate responsibility for your work and actions and holding yourself accountable as a leader. Follow as if your turn to lead is just around the corner. Lead like your turn to follow is coming soon. Great leaders will accept their mistakes, take responsibility for missteps and will not look for excuses or someone else to blame.

3.      Try new things and new approaches

People follow behaviour. If we consistently project the right behaviour, people will notice, form an opinion, make their judgment, and follow our lead. In this vein, great leaders are always searching for ways to think outside the box and challenge the status quo if it needs shaking up. Leading by example means coming up with new ways of thinking while also listening to your team’s input and sense of direction. The best leaders will recognise the value of a good idea and will give credit where credit is due.

4.      Demonstrate self-control

We must be able to lead ourselves before we can lead others. Leadership is about what you do rather than who you are, and it starts with a mindset that is strong and resilient. Demonstrating self-control means facing yourself regularly, admitting what’s not working and investigating how to make the necessary changes. Leaders who exhibit these thinking patterns encourage their employees to act with self-control and self-awareness as well, allowing them to feel a sense of ownership over their work and their place in the organisation.

Feel that your leadership skills could use a tune-up? Take the LMA DIY Leadership Analysis and see where you are excelling and where there is room for improvement.