“My research debunks the myth that many people seem to have . . . that you become a leader by fighting your way to the top. Rather, you become a leader by helping others to the top. Helping your employees is as important, and many times more so, than trying to get the most work out of them.” ~ William Cohen, The Stuff of Heroes: The Eight Universal Laws of Leadership.
I just read a great article in Support World Magazine by Peter McGarahan titled “Service Leadership ” for the full pdf read click HERE.
here’s a short excerpt…Pete writes…. -In my many leadership positions and interactions with support professionals around the world, effective leadership comes down to one thing: people care when they know that you care!
In recent Gallup polls regarding the state of the U.S. worker, it is shocking and disappointing to see how many people are truly disengaged in the workplace. In support organizations, the biggest differentiator between organizations that excel at service delivery, customer service, and delivering business value and the ones that always struggle is leadership. Leaders who approach their responsibilities with energy, passion, and intelligence will always make a difference in people’s lives.
These leaders never forget: Where they came from, What it took to get where they are, and The important lessons they learned along the way.
They are particularly resourceful and utilize trusted, experienced mentors for advice, direction, and support. What’s even more interesting is the fact that these leaders-successful, happy people-are humble! They never let their egos convince them that they are the smartest people in the room, and they never let arrogance stand in the way of being a good listener and a continuous learner.
Obvious - Common Sense - old news…you say?! Well yes… it is, but rare and wonderful is the leader whose life emulates these principles. And blessed, happy and engaged are the few lucky souls who work with that leader.
Kirk Out