I'm a shepherd, not a sheep, and I've always prided myself on being a leader and not a follower.
Dustin Diamond
Leaders have a distinct personality trait that is obviously different than anyone else; they have an innate ability to lead others, to get others to do what they want them to do or what needs to be done. But there is one trait that leaders have that many people do not expect them to possess. Leaders are instinctive followers.
In order for a leader to be respected and to be followed or mimicked, he or she must first show that they can be led. That they can take orders. Sounds weird right? A leader is able to influence people when he shows humility and willingness to learn. When a leader accepts change, admits defeat or asks for help, he will invariably gain more followers than he thought possible. This is because showing this side of his or her personality shows they have a human side.
In order for a leader to attract followers, there are certain characeteristics that they should possess:
- Leaders should listen to their followers. Nothing is more annoying to a follower than having their requests or complaints fall on deaf ears with a blank look.
- Leaders should be charismatic. Easy to get along with. Pleasant to be around, almost looked forward to being seen.
- Leaders should possess an ability to defuse a hostile situation with professionalism, frankness and fairness. The ability to handle a situation like this lends itself to followers being tuned into whatever you say next.
Happy Thanksgiving, Bridget!
I especially like that last point about being able to diffuse tough situations.
Posted by: Easton Ellsworth | November 21, 2007 6:41 AM | Permalink to Comment