So what does it take to be a leader?

Leaders only need one thing ....!

FOLLOWERS

and perhaps the more people that twig onto this simple notion then the more we will accomplish each day - individually, as a society, as a nation and as a world of 7 billion souls.
So what does it take to be a leader? Well, here are a few pointers.

Appearance. This is the first thing that anyone notices and if we do not create a positive first impression then we are out of the running immediately. So as a leader am I ever off stage? The answer is no. This means we do have to be 'smart' within the accepted dress code. We have to smell right, and sound right and our overall body language must be positive.

What we say and how we say it are the next two. It's not the words that people listen too in the first few seconds they listen for tone of voice. They listen for passion, desire, drive, belief and a whole myriad of other words we might use to describe elements of charisma. This is where we demonstrate our congruence. That alignment between our values, actions and outcomes together with how we show up in the world is congruence. It is the exhibition of authenticity and leading an intentional life.

So appearance attracts, what we say and how we say it holds attention.

In fourth place then comes our actions. How do I relate to others? Do we do what we say we are going to do? Is our conversation littered with doubt in the form of ifs, buts and maybes. Do we wait or act? Do we dream hope and wish? Or do we live life as it comes cherishing each and very moment, exploring all opportunities? Do we create solutions to problems and implement without delay?

It is only now, after we maintain the attraction of others through these four elements that anyone will start to take notice of our technical capability, our business or academic competence.
So, would you follow the person who looks, acts and sounds the part, who is congruent and authentic? If the answer is yes then you know who you need to be and how you need to show up in the world for others to follow your lead.

Begin now, as you sign off from this blog. Become conscious of your incompetence as a leader and start working on it right away. Yes, that's it, have a look in the mirror. A good look.
If you need some help - call.


David Pickering