Five Ways to Build Respect as a Leader

08/23/2018

Five Ways to Build Respect as a Leader

Knowledge — like the sky — is never private property.... Teaching is the art of sharing.
Abraham Joshua Heschel

In an article in Forbes magazine, Glenn Llopis outlines five ways leaders can earn respect from their teams:

Consistently Strong Work Ethic; Set The Standard
Actions are stronger than words, and this is personified by the respected leader…Respected leaders are those who consistently prove through their work ethic that they are reliable and trustworthy on the inside and out…
Not Afraid to Take Risks; Admit Wrong Doing
Respected leaders are those who are not afraid to take risks. They are bold enough to change the conversation and seamlessly challenge the status quo for the betterment of the organization and their competitive advantage. They can anticipate when a paradigm shift is in order and are courageous enough to act on it.

The other side of this admirable quality is the ability to admit wrong doing. Respected leaders do not hesitate to make the most difficult decisions and will put themselves out on the frontline to lead by example. They gravitate towards what many view as a “leap of faith” and willingly accept the challenge – knowing very well that the odds may not be in their favor given the personalities and inherent obstacles that surround them…
Sponsor High-Potential Employees; Serve Others Rightly
Respected leaders think about making others better. They don’t leach, they lead. They are mindful of those that give a 100% effort to their responsibilities. Respected leaders find ways to discover the best in people and enable their full potential. When they detect high-potential talent they impart upon them their wisdom and provide a path for long-term success…
Powerful Executive Presence; Long-Lasting Impact
The most respected leaders are the most authentic people. Their executive presence is genuine and true. They make those around them feel that they matter and they welcome constructive dialogue regardless of hierarchy or rank. Respected leaders trust themselves enough to live their personal brand and serve as powerful role models to others. Their presence creates long-lasting impact that leaves a positive mark on the organization and the people they serve.

Respected leaders are passionate, impact-driven people. Their presence is felt when they walk into the room; their reputation and their track-record precede them…
Have Their Employees’ Backs; Deflect Their Own Recognition
Too many leaders are recognition addicts and want all of the credit. They spend too much time breaking-down rather than building-up their teams. They don’t take the time to genuinely learn about other’s needs. Leadership is ultimately about knowing the people you serve and giving them the guidance, inspiration and navigational tools to make their lives better and enable more opportunities…

Source: “5 Ways Leaders Earn Respect from their Employees," by Glen Llopis, Forbes magazine, June 22, 2013

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