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When you are at work, do you get frustrated because things don’t seem to be happening the way they’re supposed to be? You see people wandering around but nothing gets accomplished. In the daily hustle and bustle, do you feel that your goals remain just that – goals you still intend to reach but haven’t? Then maybe it’s time for you to stand up and do something about it.

Most people are content just to stand around listening for orders. It isn’t unusual to adopt a follow-the-leader mentality. But maybe, somewhere inside of you, you feel the desire to make things happen – to be the leader, not the follower. Then maybe being the follower suits you fine.

Some people believe that model leaders are made, not born. Yes, it may be true that some people are born with natural talents. However, without practice, without drive, without enthusiasm, and without experience, there can be no true development in leadership.

You must also remember that model leaders are continually working and studying to improve their natural skills. This takes a commitment to constantly improve in whatever endeavor a person chooses.

First of all, let’s define model leadership. To be a model leader, one must be able to influence others to accomplish a goal, or an objective. He contributes to the organization and togetherness of a group.

Contrary to what most people believe, leadership is not about power. It is not about harassing people or driving them using fear. It is about encouraging others towards the goal of the organization. It is putting everyone on the same page and helping them see the big picture of the organization. You must be a leader, not a boss.

First of all, you have to get people to follow you. How can this accomplished?

People follow others when they see a clear sense of purpose. People will only follow you if they see that you know where you are going. Remember that bumper sticker that says, “don’t follow me, I’m lost too”? The same holds true for leadership. If you do not know where you’re headed to, chances are people will not follow you at all.

You must know the vision of the organization. Having a clear sense of hierarchy, knowing who the bosses are, who to talk to, their goals and objectives, and how the organization works is the only way to show others you know what you are doing.

Being a model leader is not about what you make others do. It’s about who you are, what you know, and what you do. You are a reflection of what you’re subordinates must be.

Studies have shown that another sign of model leadership is the trust and confidence your subordinates have of you. If they trust you, they will accomplish many things for you and for the organization.

Trust and confidence is built on good relationships, trustworthiness, and high ethics.

The way you deal with your people, and the relationships you build will lay the foundation for the strength of your group. The stronger your relationship, the stronger their trust and confidence is in your capabilities.

Once you have their trust and confidence, you may now proceed to communicate the goals and objectives you are to undertake.

Communication is a very important key to model leadership. Without this, you can not be a model leader. The knowledge and technical expertise you have must be clearly passed on to other people.

Also, you can not be a model leader unless you have good judgment. You must be able to assess situations, weigh the pros and cons of any decision, and actively seek out a solution.

It is this judgment that your subordinates will come to rely upon. Therefore, good decision-making is vital to the success of your organization.

Model leaders are not do-it-all heroes. You should not claim to know everything, and you should not rely upon your skills alone.

You should recognize and take advantage of the skills and talents your subordinates have. Only when you come to this realization will you be able to work as one cohesive unit.

Remember being a model leader takes a good deal of work and time. It is not learned overnight. Remember, that it is not about only you. It is about you and the people around you.

So, do you have the drive and the desire to serve required of model leaders? Do you have the desire to work cooperatively with other people? Then start now. Take that stand and be that leader today.

Effective Leadership Resources

Scott Barker- EzineArticles- Expert Author

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Filed under: Self Esteem/Confidence, Self-Improvement