The exceptional
leader is always
thinking three
steps ahead.
by Phil Phillips, PhD
Contributing Editor
phillips@chemarkconsulting.net
As global consultants to the specialty chemicals industry over the past 39 years, we have witnessed the results
of degrees of leadership capabilities that range
from very poor to excellent. Of course, this
range can be said of every industry at one time
or another.
According to the Holden Leadership Center,
an exceptionally effective business leader keeps
the following 17 key success elements in balance:
Proactive vs. Reactive
The exceptional leader is always thinking three
steps ahead. Working to master his/her own environment with the goal of avoiding problems
before they arise.
Flexible/Adaptable
How do you handle yourself in unexpected or
uncomfortable situations? An effective leader
will adapt to new surroundings and situations,
doing his/her best to adjust.
A Good Communicator
As a leader, one must listen...a lot! You must
be willing to work to understand the needs
and desires of others. A good leader asks many
questions, considers all options, and leads in the
right direction.
Respectful
Treating others with respect will ultimately
earn respect.
Quiet Confidence
Be sure of yourself with humble intentions.
Enthusiastic
Excitement is contagious. When a leader is motivated and excited about the cause people will
be more inclined to follow.
Open-Minded
Work to consider all options when making
decisions. A strong leader will evaluate the in-
put from all interested parties and work for the
betterment of the whole.
Resourceful
Utilize the resources available to you. If you
don’t know the answer to something find out
by asking questions. A leader must create access
to information.
Rewarding
An exceptional leader will recognize the efforts
of others and reinforce those actions. We all enjoy being recognized for our actions!
Well Educated
Knowledge is power. Work to be well educated
on community policies, procedures, organizational norms, etc. Further, your knowledge of
issues and information will only increase your
success in leading others.
Open to Change
A leader will take into account all points of
view and will be willing to change a policy, program, cultural tradition that is out-dated, or no
longer beneficial to the group as a whole.
Interested in Feedback
How do people feel about your leadership skill
set? How can you improve? These are important questions that a leader needs to constantly ask the chapter. View feedback as a gift to
improve.
Evaluative
Evaluation of events and programs is essential for an organization/group to improve and
progress. An exceptional leader will constantly
evaluate and change programs and policies that
are not working.
Organized
Are you prepared for meetings, presentations,
events and confident that people around you
are prepared and organized as well?
Consistent
Confidence and respect cannot be attained
Do Great Leaders Need Experience?
