Performance Matters - Idea # 25

Retired CEO of Herman Miller and author Max DePree (from my hometown) wrote that, the first responsibility of a leader is to define reality, the last is to say thank you, and in between to be a servant.

By servant he meant someone who takes care of the needs of others and positions them for success. A servant is one who removes obstacles and honors those who are served. Such attitudes are not common practice today but are certainly the traits of effective leaders.

Be honest in your communications with others, even if the message you bring is not comfortable. People deserve the truth. Only then can situations be changed and opportunities be grasped.

The more you respect others the more you are obligated to share the truth!

Learning the skills of a servant leader that leads not from the front of the parade but from its middle is a goal worthy of pursuit and mentoring. Where are you leading from.? Do you routinely define reality? Do you position others for succes? Are you satisfied with your leadership?

Bob

(c) copyright 2008
Performance Builders