Two traits of people in charge

If you  are in charge of a team or aspire to lead one, you might be interested in reading on.

John Maxwell author and leadership expert tells the story of two of the fiercest political English rivals of the 19th century: Willam Gladstone and Benjamin Disraeli.

Both men were ambitious and masterful politicians that differed in the way how they approached people. The difference is best illustrated by the account of a woman who had the privilege to dine with both dignitaries on consecutive nights.

When asked about her impression on both of them, the woman answered: "After leaving the dinning room with Mr. Gladstone, I thought he was the cleverest man in England. But after dinning and sitting next to Disraeli, I thought I was the cleverest woman in England."

In my professional experience I have had the privilege of knowing this kind of leaders that shed light in others and focus on their potential, and I must say it′s an absolutely unforgettable experience.

When asked I usually suggest there are two fundamental traits of anyone who has people in his or her charge:

1. The person in charge must create contexts of psychological security and trust, where others feel free to express their opinions, their ideas or contribute with creative insights.
2. People in leadership positions have the responsibility to grow and enable the potential of the people on their teams to its fullest.

It was also Disraeli who said "The greatest good you can do for another is not to share your riches but to reveal to him his own". That is why the talent of any company is as good as good are the leaders at growing and elevating the potential of employees.

Remember: hire slow, when needed let go fast, and consistently, grow and develop talent.

And you ... what you have learned today?