The Value of a True LEADER
It doesn't really matter if you are organizing a fundraiser or looking for the "Right Person" to run a Billion Dollar corporation, we always ask "who is going to do it....and do it right"?
People often think that they are leaders, and at times are not. It takes a special kind of person to provide faith and confidence to their peers and subordinates. A very specific quality has to be there for that to happen. You can have an exceptional, hyper-intelligent individual with all of the business knowledge in a position of authority who has no "Buy-in" from the people he or she is supposed to be leading.
Sure, there are always some people who have the whole package in terms of leadership skills and personality, and they truly have a gift. However, in my experience, quite often, the people who do not think they are leaders actually are. Let me explain.
Grassroots individuals are the ones I really look at for leadership skills. Here's why. Let's use a simple analogy to make things easier. In a company where turn over is low, there is a need for a new manager. While the level of experience within the company is high, there may not be a lot of people with the "goods" to direct the workforce. However, more often than not, there is that individual who has the knowledge, experience, and very clearly , the potential. That same person sometimes just lacks confidence.
In a world where we often grasp at formal education for the quick assessment, we often have those "diamond in the rough" individuals right there in front of us. These are the people who already play a key role in the organization, have dedicated a lot of time and energy providing to the company, and may only need the chance to grow as well.
With a good understanding of the company culture, some direction, training, and faith may bring you an incredible asset to the business.
While money is a driving force in all jobs and careers, respect, and appreciation sometimes mean more to our employees than simply getting a paycheck. That is something that is indispensable in any organization.
So next time you want to parachute in an expert in the field, take a step back, and consider this:
- What are their ties to the company
- Do they TRULY understand "Our Culture"
- How easily will they be able to integrate into the workforce
- How will they gain the respect of their peers
If any of the answers give you hesitation, consider providing an opportunity to an existing, knowledgeable employee. They will appreciate the chance to give back to a company that has given to them in the past. It also provides reward and acknowledgement to loyal workers.
I realize that this is never possible all of the time, but for me, it breeds a culture of respect, and appreciation to all of those involved.