Elders have a saying, “It’s not what you say. It’s what you do.” Two actions — wherewithal and accountability. Simple enough, right? Wrong. If the current economic times have revealed anything to both white and blue collar workers alike, its who the real leaders are in their organizations. Rolling out posed two questions to three of our guest experts, each a leader in their field:
Some maintain that it takes certain characteristics to be an effective leader. In your opinion, what are those characteristics? Exactly, what does it take?
Paulette Norvel Lewis, Regional Administrator
Women’s Bureau, U.S. Department of Labor, Region IV
I believe that the characteristics of leadership are vision, valuing people, inclusion, openness, listening, courage (to act), and understanding that there are causes and “someone” greater than yourself.
Goldie Taylor, Goldie Taylor Omnimedia, LLC
Knowing the mission, the resources necessary to accomplish that goal and being able to appropriately assess and deploy high potential, high performing talent against it. And above all else, authenticity. Without it, no one will follow you anywhere for very long. With it, you can move mountains.
Tenera McPherson, Staffing One, Inc. Great leaders have not only a passion for the business, but a fire for harnessing that excitement within their teams. Great leaders know their gifts and leverage their power. They reflect on their skill set gaps and appoint and trust others to play their roles to fully leverage all resources. Insightful leaders consistently seek feedback from all levels. They know it helps identify blind spots in ideas and processes and ultimately impacts results, and [leadership] can prevent costly mistakes. Outstanding leaders communicate well. I have seen more employees jump ship due to poor communication and not knowing what is going on within a company and how and if they fit.
Leadership — can it be taught or is it intrinsic?
Paulette Lewis
I don’t believe that true leadership can be taught — it is an inherent gift. I think that most of us can be taught however to be good managers in the particular area of our expertise.
Goldie Taylor
I used to believe leadership could be taught, such as in business school. However, in my 25 years of professional experience, I’ve come to understand that it is something that is intrinsic and is nurtured to maturity. Authentic leadership begins with a spirit of service. Ironically, people who cannot be led inherently are unable to lead. Small people make small plans. Solid managers understand the full mission and have taken the time to develop the credibility necessary to build the right team.
Tenera McPherson
I believe that leadership can be taught, where there is a willing heart, a passion to learn and a desire to do what is right with people and with business.
