Lead, Follow, or get out of the Way!

Monday Message from Jerry Houston, President and CEO of HPISolutions

Lead, Follow, or get out of the Way!

No doubt you have heard this saying, however, I wonder, have you spent any time thinking about what it means?

In order for an organization to be effective, someone has to take a leadership role and others need to take a followership role.  What makes a great leader, and what makes a great follower?

LEADERS:

1. Be courageous. That is to say, have the courage of your convictions.  Don’t be afraid to stand your ground, even when others may disagree.
2. Listen to input from your team. The people who know, are the people involved.  When you honor them by listening and then being honest with them about the direction you will take, team members will feel valued and respected.
3. Have integrity. Do what you say you will do.  Do the right thing and tell the truth.  You will earn the respect of your teammates.
4. Advocate for your team. When your team is right, defend their position, and work across departmental lines to clear the path for them to accomplish the goals.
5. Hold the team accountable. Believe it or not, people expect and want to be accountable for their actions.  If they make a mess, they get to clean it up!

FOLLOWERS:

1.  Pay attention to the purpose of the team. What is it that the team is trying to accomplish?  What is your part in the tasks at hand?
2. Ask questions. Do you clearly understand what is expected?  Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.
3. Be fully engaged. Are you focused on the goals of the organization and the significance of your part in achieving the mission and vision?  Participate fully.
4. Accept the decisions. Have your say.  State your position, but once a decision is made, support the decision fully and help the team to succeed.
5. Be a product of the product. In other words, learn your craft.  Hone your skills.  Be a value-add to the group and the organization.

Of course, there are many other factors for leading or following, but I thought these would get you thinking about your role and responsibilities.  Not willing to engage… then get out of the way!

Have a Great Week!