On Forbes.com, communications coach Carmine Gallo shares some secrets of inspiring leaders.
Gallo points out that one third of US employees are so unhappy in their jobs that they are considering leaving their current employers.
"Let me ask you," he says, "how is it possible that unhappy, unmotivated and disengaged employees could possibly offer exceptional customer service or develop exciting, innovative products that move your brand forward? They can't. That’s why it is up to you as leader to satisfy a person's 'chief want': someone who will inspire us to be what we know we can be."
The author gives the following advice:
• Ignite enthusiasm. The key here is passion. The author insists that every inspiring leader has passion in abundance, not just about the product but what it means to their customers.
• Navigate a course of action. "Nothing extraordinary ever happened without a leader articulating a vision, a course of action," says Gallo.
• Sell the benefit. Setting goals and targets is all very well, but employees need a clear picture of the benefits that will be achieved.
• Paint a picture. Gallo explains: "Our brains are programmed more for stories than for abstract ideas. Stories can include the real stories of how your products are improving the lives of your customers. Stories can also include personal anecdotes, helping to establish a closer connection between leaders and teams."
• Invite participation. Employees don't just want a pay cheque – they want to feel involved so "invite them in".
• Reinforce optimism. Gallo quotes former US secretary of state Colin Powell, who said: "Optimism is a force multiplier."
• Encourage potential. Don't see your employees as simply cogs in a wheel. They need to know you genuinely care about their well-being and job satisfaction.
Source
The Seven Secrets Of Inspiring Leaders
Carmine Gallo
Forbes.com
Read more stories like this with a FREE two-month trial subscription to Leadership & Management Review.
Discuss and share this with comments below or on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
This is sound advice. Too
This is sound advice. Too many leaders forget about the importance of getting true buy-in from their employees.