Leadership Lessons I've Learned

I’m in the midst of a hire, and I was thinking back today on what aspects of leadership have served others and myself the best to grow and flourish in their roles.

Some back-of-the-envelope notes I made for myself:
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• Serving the mission of the organization is always priority but what experience and professional goals does the new hire bring that s/he may want to implement into their work? What brings them joy and fulfillment? Find those and both the employee and the org will benefit. Keep doing this and you’ll also see a marked reduction in turnover.

• Professional development isn’t always about conference attending and coaching. It’s about the supervisor knowing how to see that individuals’ light and talents and helping to transform that into the everyday work that will elevate both the org and the  individual. That’s leadership.  (See bullet point one.)

• Know when you’re being managed up, and be grateful for it. Listen to the why and transform your work accordingly. 

• If there's a suggestion that comes in that is not helpful, explain without ego, and then ask - even though we’re not going down the road you suggested - do you know and understand why? Do you still feel heard? 

• Take responsibility for all your work and know when to publicly acknowledge others' good work. It matters a ton.

• Take credit for little, give credit a lot. Good work is always visible - no need to shout.

• These days, checking in on the daily is critical. In this age of COVID-19 it’s especially true. We’re all carrying a lot, in different ways, and it shows up in our work. How can it not? 

• Ask often: How can I help you move forward today? 

• Is today a “stuck” day or a “fly” day? We all have them. Set the same expectations for others as you do for yourself. Treat people accordingly. 

• Acknowledge your mistakes, it gives others the freedom to do so as well. If we can fail forward together at times, wouldn’t the lessons be more tangible for all? 

• Be the mentor you always wanted for yourself. Set the time for the leadership work to be tangible. Good leadership doesn’t just happen - it can be designed and operationalized. 

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Leadership is learning . Let's keep learning and leading together.

C.