New to a leadership or management role?

As a new leader, Sharon was excited but nervous. She had never led others before. Her experiences in being led at home, work and in her community will define her daily actions as a leader.

What were your leadership experiences like?

Here are some warning signs that you are just not ready (though you will be on the right path once you read this post!):

Warning Sign #1. You have never heard of Servant Leadership

Good news, you’ve heard about it now! From the Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership:

“One of these fundamental, timeless principles is the idea of Servant Leadership, and I am convinced that it will continue to dramatically increase in its relevance….You’ve got to produce more for less, and with greater speed than you’ve ever done before. The only way you can do that in a sustained way is through the empowerment of people. And the only way you get empowerment is through high-trust cultures and through the empowerment philosophy that turns bosses into servants and coaches…“ Stephen Covey, in his Foreword to Insights on Leadership

Warning Sign #2. Focusing on people seems too soft for your work environment

A best practice in sales is to be “customer-focused”. In leadership, you must be “people-focused”. Being curious about your people, who they are and what their needs are is critical to increased satisfaction of the work environment and increased levels of performance and motivation.

Warning Sign #3. The thought of providing authentic feedback makes you hide in fear

As a leader with character, you make it your business to recognize and offer feedback that gets used. You know that your team’s hard work deserves your attention and this focus will pay rewards: to you as leader, to your team’s desire to excel, and to the business. A win-win-win!

Warning Sign #4. Empowerment is an individual sport

As a leader, your role is to empower your team members to empower each other. Cultivating trust and collaboration within your team is critical to their success.

Warning Sign #5. You don’t have time to reflect and work on yourself

Awareness of your actions and how they affect your team shows courage and strength. Seek to understand and then make visible changes – your ability to  grow and learn from your mistakes provides an incredible model.

Warning Sign #6. Your “Trust Dial” is set to mistrust

Try moving that dial to the “Trust First” position. Trusting first fosters an environment of achievers, people who strive to perform their best everyday.

This post was inspired by a Poll I started on the Facebook Page for my upcoming book, The Apple in the Orchard. Additional actions every leader is ready for are listed. Add your own action and vote for your favorites: http://www.facebook.com/questions/316345481753162/

Thoughts?

• Do any of these warning signs seem more alarming than others?
• Which of these seem to be the most wide-spread in our workplaces?
• What is the impact of not listening to or recognizing these warning signs?

Share your thoughts!