THE WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, AND HOW OF LEADERSHIP
Sometimes I simply talk. I say things that make sense to me, but maybe not to others.
One such incident occurred recently in which I claimed I practiced “Situational Leadership.” The immediate response was a lot less than positive. The person with whom I was engaged then explained his reaction which was based on his knowledge of “Situational Leadership” as developed by Paul Hersy and Ken Blanchard in 1969.
Well, I must profess my ignorance here. I was simply referring to the fact that each time I approach a leadership challenge I KNOW that it will be different than other challenges I have faced; thus, I let the situation inform my approach. I was not referring to any leadership theory, which quite honestly, is something I NEVER do.
Let me further explain: the who, what, when, where, and how of each situation show me how to progress.
A further explanation:
Who: This one is relatively straightforward. Who is involved in the issue at hand? Something to consider here is this: many of us were taught “Treat others how you would like to be treated.” This sounds great, but has been replaced by a newer, better idea: “Treat others how they want to be treated.” So, identify the key players and treat them in the manner they wish to be treated.
What: investigate to the level necessary so that you have the requisite information to act.
When: is there an urgency that requires your immediate response? Can you bide your time until the appropriate situation presents itself? If not, address as soon as realistically possible.
Where: this one is huge. Do you have to “Call someone on the carpet?” Can you go to their assigned area and address it? Doing things on their “turf” may allow for an easier and better resolution because they are in their safe place.
How: this is related to where. If you call someone on the carpet, is that person interested in listening to what you have to say, or are their defenses up the SECOND they are notified of the meeting? Also, keep in mind the idea of "taking care of your people" when addressing issues. You are not doing this to destroy others, but simply addressing an ISSUE that needs to be resolved.
I am a staunch believer in people who lead in a manner that is comfortable for them. True leadership success lies in understanding who and why you are the person you are and harnessing those engaged values when you lead.
Do you want to learn to lead with confidence? Do you want your teammates to lead confidently?
We can help! DM me or email me at dan@leadingbuffalo.com and accelerate your leadership growth and that of your new leaders.
🦬This is leadership.
💯You can do this.
🍀Good luck.
#leadinglikeabuffalo #dinamico #leadership #leadwithconfidence