Lead by Example

Kekich Credo #42 - Lead by example.  

Leading by example means you are modelling the behaviour you want to see in those that follow you.  

You are guiding others through your actions and inspiring them to do the same as you.  You don’t push team members towards excellence.  You actively demonstrate that excellence.  You provide a path that others can follow so that everyone is working toward a common goal.

Leading by example is an effective way to improve the cooperation of your followers.

When you lead by example, people can look at you and say,  “If he can do it, I CAN do it.’  You create a picture of what is possible and others can easily follow you. 

Integrity, the ability to delegate, communication, self-awareness, gratitude, learning agility, influence and empathy are the characteristics and qualities of a good leader.  The ability to ‘walk the talk’ is the mark of a good leader who leads by example. You guide others by your behaviour instead of your words. The opposite of leading by example is to say one thing and do another.  

Here are four reasons why it is important to lead by example.  

1. When leaders lead by example, morale goes up.  The leader’s actions influence team attitude, satisfaction, and performance. Boosting morale leads to greater loyalty and higher productivity.

2. Leading by example builds trust and respect.  A trusted leader can inspire teammates to respect and trust each other and this too can increase customer loyalty.

3. Leading by example fosters a positive work culture. Leaders who ‘walk the talk’ embody the goals, work practices, beliefs and the desired behaviours of the organization. The daily commitment to the workplace values inspires a positive work culture and happy employees.

4. Leading by example increases productivity.  When others see their leader doing the hard work, keeping commitments, and focusing on shared outcomes, it is easier for teams to be productive too. When a leader’s actions and words align, the team doesn’t waste energy trying to figure out the agenda. The team works harder and does the work that makes the whole team proud of their accomplishments. Leading by example, the leader can also teach their team to develop more efficient and effective processes.

How can you lead by example? 

 

Ask yourself these questions as you start your day.  

• How can I show up today?  

• What does my team need help with? 

• What do I want them to do that I should also be doing? How can I recognize my team today?

During the work day ask yourself these questions.  

• Am I living up to the standards I want my team to live up to?  

• What can I do right now to model ethical behaviour? 

• What do I need to help my team with right now?  

• Am I focusing on important tasks? 

At the end of the day, ask yourself more questions.  

• Did I show excellence today?  

• If so, what did I do right?  

• If not, what should I do next time?  

• How can I be a better leader tomorrow?

Taking the time each day to reflect on these questions and to follow through each day will help you improve your leadership skills and you will become a leader who leads by example.

# living life abundantly    # published author