How do you spot a leader? According to Robert Townsend, they come in all sizes, ages, shapes, and conditions. Some are poor administrators, while some are not overly bright. There is a clue: since some people are mediocre, the true leader can be recognized because somehow his people consistently demonstrate superior performances.
A leader is great, not because of his or her power, but because of his or her ability to empower others. Success without a successor is a failure. A worker’s main responsibility is developing others to do the work. Loyalty to the leader reaches its highest peak when the follower has personally grown through the mentorship of the leader. Why? You win people’s hearts by helping them grow personally.
Years ago, one of the key players on my staff was Sheryl Fleisher. When she first joined the team, she was not a people person. Today she successfully develops others. There is a bond of loyalty that Sheryl has given to my leadership, and we both know the reason. My time invested with her brought a positive change. She will never forget what I have done for her. Interestingly, her time invested in the lives of others greatly helped me. I will never forget what she has done for me either.
The core of leaders who surround you should all be people you have personally touched or helped to develop in some way. When that happens, love and loyalty will be exhibited by those closest to you and by those who are touched by your key leaders.
Are people going to the next level because of your investment in them?
THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.
[Taken from Developing the Leader Within You (2012) by John C. Maxwell. Published by Thomas Nelson Inc.]
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