Ep. 44 - What makes a great leader?

Great leaders are often categorized as brilliant risk-takers with uncanny charisma. They dominate headlines. They are quoted [and misquoted] numerous times over. They're at times flashy, while toeing the line of appearing 'grounded'. However, these are the high-profile anomalies.  

My business, Elevate Financial, is blessed to work with a few small, local businesses [5 - 10 employees]. The leaders at these organizations are not famous, they’re not Harvard graduates, and they weren’t featured in the Forbes 30 under 30 list. They’re allergic to ‘typical working environments’, which has allowed their organizations to thrive, providing employees with a safe, fun, and caring working environment.

Here are three characteristics they embody, all of which can be cultivated.

1) Humility

This is number one for a reason. Being able to laugh at yourself, know when you’re wrong, and listen to employees creates an unwavering sense of trust and equality throughout an organization. The amount of times I’ve heard, “wow, I was wrong”, or “I honestly have no idea - what do you think?” is astounding. It creates an environment where failure is accepted, and the understanding that mistakes are supposed to be made. An understanding that you won’t always have the answers, and that’s okay. This also ensures that you’re surrounding yourself with the right people. People to fill the knowledge gaps. And people with equal humility.

2) Lead by example

We’ve all heard this numerous times, but it needs to be constantly reiterated. Don’t tell your employees to take care of their mental health if you’re not doing the same. Don’t tell employees to take weekends off if you're sending them emails Saturday afternoon. You must live the principles you instil in your team. They're human, just as you are.

I visited one of my clients last week and when I walked in he was mopping the floors. He's the founder and sole owner. He's the CEO & President. He has never, and I mean never, thought of himself as ‘above that’. He asks his employees to take care of the space, so he follows suit as well. This is leading by example.

3) Listen more, speak less

Have you ever noticed how great leaders don’t interrupt, they don’t interject in the middle of a sentence, or make condescending comments toward their staff. Great leaders are often the quietest in the room. They actively listening - not passively. Next time you’re having a conversation try to really listen. Lean in, nod your head in agreement - actively listen. It’s more exhausting, but much more valuable.

These are simple steps for any leader to implement today. Whether you're leading an ameteur sports team, a small business, a multi-billion dollar unicorn, or your family, these principles are timeless.