Responsible Leadership

"To my mind, you cannot speak about the need for leadership within our communities without being prepared to take on responsibility yourself. It's not enough to point the finger at those who have let us down and to expect others to come forward and fix our problems. Nor can anyone afford to call themselves a leader unless they truly have the interests of our community at heart. Too many people like to think they are leaders and too many are identified by the media as leaders who are not really leaders at all."
  --- Jackie Huggins

You don't need me to tell you that change is upon us. From now on, the way we conduct business requires innovation, an excessive dose of motivation, and nose-to-the-grindstone perseverance. Oh, and it is up to you and me to change the way we do business in order to not only profit, but for some, to survive. An influx of money from Uncle Sam is not going to do it, Obama is not going to do it, and your chances of winning the lottery is pretty slim.

For you to lead your business forward, it is up to you to step up to the plate and be the leader that your team will follow. Here are three not-so-easy, but necessary, steps that other great leaders have followed to bring their businesses through all kinds of crisis.

"Too many leaders act as if the sheep...their people...are there for the benefit of the shepherd, not that the shepherd has responsibility for the sheep."
  --- Ken Blanchard

First, recognize that it is up to you. You can't blame the economy, the government, the weather, or anything else for your business failings. You've chosen to lead, now lead. Your team members are your responsibility. If you have to downsize, you should shed tears. If one of your team members is sick, you should send Gatorade or flowers. Great business leaders have the mindset that they must take responsibility for all aspects of the business.

"If we allow the celebrity rock-star model of leadership to triumph, we will see the decline of corporations and institutions of all types. The twentieth century was a century of greatness, but we face the very real prospect that the next century will see very few enduring great institutions."
  --- Jim Collins

Second, be willing to take part in the success of your products and services. Roll up your sleeves and work in the shop or become a part of the installation team. Impart your work ethic to the troops. You are leading by example because they are watching your every move. When you show how important quality service is to the business by creating quality, they tend to follow you.

For help, pick up an old classic, "Leadership Secrets of Attila the Hun," by Wess Roberts. Roberts gives great illustrations in how this is accomplished on a daily basis.

"I'm out talking about this company (General Electric) seven days a week, 24 hours a day, with nothing to hide. We're a 130-year-old company that has a great record of high-quality leadership and a culture of integrity."
  --- Jeffrey Immelt

Finally, go against the grain. Don't give in to the constant bombardment of media negativism. Stay informed, but be wise and discerning with the way you handle news.

For example, it is easier to market your business during the good times when the money is flowing in, your team works together, the economy is solid, and your socks match. However, the strong leaders are putting more resources than ever into a well-planned marketing campaign during this economic downturn. They know the value of planting seeds now for an abundant harvest later.

"Outstanding leaders go out of their way to boost the self-esteem of their personnel. If people believe in themselves, it's amazing what they can accomplish."
  --- Sam Walton

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