sandeep behera

10 STEPS TO LEADERSHIP

A nation cannot achieve leadership unless we have leadership at every level of the organization. Ultimately, it comes down to the individual. Leaders must not only lead but also create leaders under them.

First, Leaders must develop powerful personal credibility. This means they should not only be consistent in what they say and do - but must deliver on their commitments.

Second, Great leaders tell people clearly what they expect from them, whether it be in terms of performance or values. The more that is expected from people, the more they tend to deliver.

Third, Great leaders are teachers and coaches. Expectations alone are not enough. People need guidance on the path they need to follow. This does not mean that the leader should spoon- feed his people.

Fourth, Successful leaders need to have energy and be able to energise others. Leadership demands extraordinary Physical, Mental and some would say, spiritual energy to remain on top of the demands made on them.

Fifth, Leaders do not always have to be in the limelight. One has to realize that leadership is not a privilege but a responsibility.

Think of birds flying in a formation, at different times, different birds lead the formation. The leader must know where to lead and where to step back.

Sixth, Winning leaders face reality. They do not dither. Leadership is about making tough yes-no decisions. Winning leaders are willing to decide with imperfect data, if needed, because leadership is about making judgments that others are either unwilling or unable to make.

Seventh, Leaders keep renewing themselves. They constantly learn from their own experiences and those of others. They create knowledge capturing and sharing processes and methods in the organization.

Eighth, Leaders surround themselves with people who err on the side of optimism. Leaders spend time with people who have a can-do approach.

Ninth, Leaders play to win. Playing to win is not the same as cutting corners. When you play to win, you stretch yourself to your maximum and use all your potential. Leaders do their best and leave the rest.

Tenth, Leaders respect themselves. Without self-confidence, it is impossible to lead.

Finally, Leaders have the ability to persevere when all odds are against them. This is especially important when the leader chooses to do something innovative or take a path not travelled before. The first reaction to this is usually criticism, not applause. But if the leader perseveres, he may attract many others to follow.

The essence of leadership is in never stopping but taking one step up at a time.

Sandeep Simon Behera