Leadership – Knowing the way, Going the way, and Showing the way

We’ve touched on leadership in the past. However in a society where it seems like being a ‘follower’ is the easiest and most likely option, touching on a subject as broad as leadership more often, can never hurt.

As we dig deeper in the mindset of a leader, we first really need to understand the traits that work together to make a great one.

Starting with Communication. Communication is a vital aspect for not only being a leader, but ultimately being a human. We all communicate. We may have different ways of doing it, but when we have a point to make, we make sure that we do the best job we possibly can in getting that point across.

This being said, there are good ways to communicate, and there are better ways to communicate. Or perhaps better still – good ways to say something, and better ways to say something.

Talking, responding, engaging, acknowledging – these are all key methods in communication. Its incredibly easy to say something – put your feelings or thoughts out there. The trick is being able to not just say it, but acknowledge that others may have a reaction to the things you say, they may be engaged by what you say, and they may not always agree. All of these are fine. Keeping a positive and open mind is one way to ensure that you’re keeping these lines of communication open and you’re not alienating those that you are trying to communicate with. By considering the reaction and feelings of others, you’re enabling this relationship to grow and prosper. Constantly feeding off of others whether they be teammates, individuals, coworkers, or management will maintain a positive and healthy relationship and open communication that will allow things to flourish and thrive.

Communication doesn’t end with verbal means either. This also includes other aspects of jobs such as recording logs and reports, providing written feedback, leaving instruction, or other written aspects. Its physical communication in the form of eye contact or a simple nod or shake of the head.

In security especially where communication is key, verbally expressing yourself is quite often not an option. Being able to communicate with facial expressions and hand signals can be an integral part of the job.

Another important Leadership trait is teamwork. Having the ability to tell people what to do is fine, but showing them what to do and doing it with them is going to earn you a lot more respect and make everyones job easier. As the title states – Leadership is knowing the way, going the way, and showing the way.

Working with a team, coming up with new ideas, and working together to achieve them. Innovation. Collaboration. Keeping the Dream alive.

It can be the key to a successful marriage, relationship, business.

Having goals and working to achieve them is how you make things grow. Whether it be yourself, your relationship, your business. Goals are the foundation of your future.

Being positive. In order to have dreams and actively work at achieving them, maintaining a positive attitude can help you by leaps and bounds. Or in the very least, it will make the days go by a little smoother and things seem to be a little easier. Being positive also helps to encourage the people you’re working with, and working for. It brightens the mood and influences those around you. Positivity is contagious. But its a good contagious. The kind where you want to indulge and surround yourself in an atmosphere that is filled with it.

Another huge trait – passion and commitment.

These are huge. A great leader shows passion. Passion for themselves, their work, their team, and the common goal. Passion breeds excitement. It shows others that you truly care, that this isn’t just another menial task. What you’re doing is important. Who you’re doing it for matters. Who you’re working with matter.

Being committed is a given. When you’re passionate, dedicated, and putting yourself out there as a role model – being committed will be second nature. And showing that you’re committed, shows that you care and respect your team. Constantly striving, showing up, and putting forth your best effort.

There are many important factors in being a leader. Going above and beyond, being passionate, committed, dedicated. Open communication, teamwork and respect. These are all stepping stones to leadership.

Everyone has the potential to be a leader. Its up to you to take the tools and make it happen.

 

 

 

Guest Blogger Rayna Davies

Rayna Davies is a graduate and practitioner of Business Management.  She has developed an expertise in blogging, covering subjects like travel, world events and security.  Having grown up with a father who has developed an expertise in Physical Security and Executive Protection in the RCMP and two major corporations, she has personally observed and experienced many security details.  These experiences have included personally meeting HM Queen Elizabeth, Prime Minister Jean Chretien and many celebrities.  She presently assists Sentinel Security in Executive Protection workshops and guest blogging and also assists Gloprosec Preventative Services in Intelligence gathering and Business Administration.  Her passions include World travel, having visited every continent.