Lead or Be Lunch – Leading Effectively During Change

You’ll find hundreds upon thousands of blogs offering leadership advice, but in your search for the best words of wisdom on the web, you might as well stop right here and allow me to give you some pointers on how to lead effectively during change.

There are four essential leadership styles, and though I’d like to tell you they’re all equally effective, they’re not, so pay close attention.

1. Dictatorial – The leader using this style operates exactly as it sounds – like a dictator, making all of the decisions about every aspect of the organization.

2. Authoritative – This kind of leader seldom lets others make decisions and, lacking confidence in his or her team, feels s/he is the most qualified and experienced in all matters.

3. Consultative – A leader of this type focuses on using the skills, experiences, and ideas of others, but still retains the final decision-making power.

4. Participative – This is a unique managerial style that many feel uncomfortable with, as most (but not all) of the authority is given to the team.

There are also four keys to leading effectively during change and they’ll see you through your company’s change, giving you and your organization the very best chance of success.

Key #1: Leverage the Power of Creative Collaboration

• In order to lead a great group of people, a leader does not need to possess all of the skills of the people in his or her group. The leader should have the ability to coach, to recognize talent, to make decisions, to communicate effectively, and to possess a positive attitude.

Key #2: Don’t Dictate…Discuss and Collaborate

• 85% of leadership success depends on your ability to communicate well. A successful leader in times of change must be able to cast a vision for their team, answer questions, and guide their team through any issues.

Key #3: Understand the Difference Between Leadership and Management

• There are five key differences between managers and leaders, and the very best managers are also great leaders.

1. The manager administrates. The leader innovates.

2. The manager is a copy. The leader is an original.

3. The manager maintains. The leader develops.

4. The manager focuses on systems and structure. The leader focuses on the development of people.

5The manager relies on control. The leader inspires trust.

Key #4: Be a People Developer

• What do I mean when I say “people developer?” Leading isn’t just about the job. It’s also about helping those on your team to meet their own personal goals. Valuing your employees means helping them to develop. Successful people developers make the right assumptions about people, ask the right questions about people, and give the right assistance to people. You wouldn’t shout “Grow!” at a plant you don’t water and expect to see progress. People are no different.

Companies change; there’s no doubt about it. If you’re willing to do your homework, trust your employees, and guide your team, together you can make any change a successful one.