It’s All About The People

I read and listen to all kinds of things: blogs, tweets, books, podcasts, sermons, etc. Looking for things that will assist me in what I do. Looking for things that will help be to be a better leader, coach, and person.

While going through my blog feed, I came across this one, Personal Leadership: It’s All About the People, Stupid! by: Todd Nielsen. The title intrigued me. So, I took the time to read what he had to say.

Here’s a quote…

Personal leadership is all about relationships with those you lead. Simply learning the names of one’s team-members is not sufficient to building a strong team of committed workers, although it s start. By learning their values, skills and dreams, you learn how they see themselves within the organizational structure. Instead of simply evaluating their work, seek opportunities for them to provide feedback on the organization. Take care to listen, and see if you can incorporate their ideas.

As you demonstrate that you value the contributions of your team-members, you will find that they are more likely to think outside of the box. They may see things you may have missed, and you may discover a wealth of skills and abilities you have previously missed. As morale improves, so will productivity and results. Creating a culture of creativity and excellence will require you to view people as ends, not simply as means to an end.

I once read, If you don’t have anyone following you, you are just going for a walk. I hate to admit it, but I don’t remember who is the original author of that statement. But, the validity of it still stands.

Leadership is built on relationships. Mr. Nielsen points out the importance of getting to know those who follow your lead. Unfortunately it is very easy to get caught up in the results and forget about the people. They are so much more than a means to an end.

They have ideas, feelings, passions, desires, plans, and much much more. If you, as a leader, can set aside your fears (fears of not being the biggest and best in the room – just to name one) and tap into this wonderful resource. You and your business/organization/etc will go places you can only image.

So, I encourage to take a risk and ask your people the questions necessary to unlock that potential. Then get out of the way and let the future unfold.