throughout the year I've blogged a number of times on strengths and values, two areas in which we develop a deep understanding of who we are and how we are unique. This past year I have really enjoyed working with a number of different teams from a range of industries, who have built time to explore their unique strengths. Months later some of the results for the teams have included better communication, clearer alignment, and better results, in part for some due to a change in role function.
As leaders we may be moving with our teams into unprecedented areas. With the pace of change ongoing, global events shifting the business context and things like technology changing the way we work, we may feel like we are in new waters every day. Our ability to be flexible, reactive, agile and problem solve collaboratively is critical.
Our ability to communicate in a way that is understood not only by our team, but the multitude of stakeholders we work with, is key. For years I have reflected on Stephen Covey's Seek first to understand, and then be understood. Our ability to be empathetic is, and understand other perspectives, is key for leadership success.
Ultimate, epic and uber are adjectives which are part of the cultural lexicon today. What has been outstanding for you as a leader this year? For the team For the organization? What will it take to sustain this, and even augment it, next year?
Our ability to be optimistic and look at the upside of issues is also key in today's environment. Daniel Goleman included the competency in optimisim in the twenty plus Emotional Intelligence leadership competencies years ago. What does optimism mean for you? What does it look like in your context?
Finally, as leaders we take a stance for the issues and ideas which are important for us. Whether we take a stance for excellence, or quality, or collaboration or engagement, as leaders it is important to be aware of what our parameters are and what we will go to bat for. What do you uphold?
What other words which start with U come to mind as you think of leadership?
Have a great start to this holiday week,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton, MES, CPT, PCC
Potentials Realized: Coaching | Teamwork | Leadership
Supporting Team Leaders to do their best work, one conversation at a time
Author of From One to Many: Best Practices for Team and Group Coaching (Jossey-Bass, 2013)
Authorized Partner of Everything DiSC and the Five Behaviors of a Cohesive Team
(416)996-TEAM (8326)
Our stake as leaders, along with our values and strengths are three areas I explore in the Inner Biz Leader(TM) Virtual Business Planning Retreat. Part business planning for the next year, part personal development, this is an online video based program which which you can complete at your own pace at Udemy. Save $100 on your registration until December 26th using this link here .