If someone asked you what being brave in business looked like, what would you say? Perhaps a good example for you is Elon Musk allowing Tesla tech to remain Open Source? Or Reed Hastings transitioning his Netflix subscription service into online streaming for early adopters?
Or perhaps it is Jean in accounts, who continues to find creative ways to motivate her small team even when the numbers are tight and the end of quarter deadline is even tighter. Jean probably won’t be asked to contribute an article to Forbes, or get on the front cover of Time Magazine. But that doesn’t mean she isn’t an inspiration to others.
The value of emerging leaders through crisis
You don’t need to lead from the front to make a good impression, you just have to have the right attitude. The world needs brave leaders right now, those who are ready to step up to the plate and spearhead change, uncertainty and reactiveness.
Emerging leaders might be the Millennial founder of an SME, or a middle management staff member in a global corporate. They might not be the people you expect. What they all have in common is their shared values – courage, authenticity and commitment.
Courage
The best examples of courage in leadership aren’t the people who always make bold decisions and get it right – it is also the people prepared to make small decisions, and to admit they might not know how to move forward. University of Houston professor and author of Dare To Lead, Brené Brown says that courage in business is epitomised by not having all the answers, being able to see the potential in others and seeking out those who can help solve a problem.
Authenticity
To be a great leader outwardly, you need to lead yourself inwardly. You need to confident in what you are doing – that your product or service is the best, that you are the right person for this job, that you have the skills to take your team forward. This isn’t just self-belief; all the mantras in the world won’t push you adequately into a leadership role. And it isn’t arrogance either. It is having a growth mindset. Be prepared to learn, to develop yourself as you develop your people. Be warm, open and optimistic. Put your best foot forward.
Commitment
If you are brave with your decision making, and you are authentic in your approach, you will also display commitment to your cause. Leaders who are motivated by a desire to see the business succeed, rather than personal success, are naturally inspiring, and their conviction is contagious. In business, we often talk about leading by example and commitment really underpins that quality. If you believe in what you are doing and you want to see success, others will gladly fall in behind you.
If you have identified emerging leaders in your business, or think you might be one yourself, then why note enrol on to the IMNZ Elevate course to develop those essential skills.
