When Leaders Listen

 Great Leaders Give Responsibility and Authority and They Want the Truth

A good leader recognizes that, once responsibility is given, everyone needs the authority and independence to make decisions.  Without authority and a measure of freedom people are typically unsuccessful and become frustrated and discouraged.

Good leaders also what you to tell them the truth, not what they want to hear.  They value the input of their team.  Many times the best ideas and greatest wisdom comes from those working in the trenches.  Great leaders ask their team what they think and take their ideas seriously. 

 

"Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen."  Winston Churchill

Do You Leave People Better Than You Found Them?

Great Leaders Affirm Those They Lead. 

Great leaders tell people about their positive qualities, and praise their accomplishments.  This kind of affirmation raises people’s performance to the next level. 

Great leaders place people ahead of results, direct their improvement, and deal with problems swiftly.  Tell your team members that you believe in them.

 

"...everyone needs encouragement...and is changed by it." John C. Maxwell 

A Leaders Biggest Task

 Great Leaders are the Chief Cheerleader of the Vision.

Great leaders keep a group focused on vision. Jesus understood the importance of vision when He said, "Can one blind person lead another? Won't they both fall into a ditch?” Leaders motivate others by sharing their enthusiasm for the vision.  The contagious nature of their enthusiasm raises everyone spirits as it spreads throughout the team. 

 

"Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision, and relentlessly drive it to completion."  Jack Welch