Servant Leader

Robert Greenleaf coined the term. The idea is that the best leaders see themselves as servants first. Decide whom — not what — you serve in your leadership capacity. Help them succeed in contributing to the organization, help them learn and grow.

 

Direction Setter

Communicate the overall goals of the team so that they are understood. Engage your people in crafting individual and team objectives that support these wider goals. Your job is to ensure that the energy and priorities of your group are aligned with the organization's strategic direction.

 

Steward for high standards and results

No matter how much you share decision-making power and involve your people, you are still ultimately responsible for the results being achieved and the objectives being met. Insist on high standards, for yourself, of course, and for those you lead. This means dealing with those who choose to under-perform. As W. Somerset Maugham once said, "It's a funny thing about life. If you refuse to accept anything but the best, you very often get it."

 

Motivator/Coach

Enthusiasm is contagious. It is also motivating. Help them identify what they truly desire from their work and career. Do what you can to help them achieve this.

 

Role Model

Leadership manifests itself, above all, in how you behave. On what to you focus your attention? Your time? Your questions? Do you act consistently with your values? For example, if you espouse an open, trusting work culture, do your people find it "safe" to speak their mind to you?