How to be a Role Model and setting the right pace at workplace?

Ideas collected from Leadership Fundamentals sessions held in November / December 2008. These ideas are focusing on how we as leaders should carry ourselves and provide a good example to the people we lead.

1. Greet staff (immediate reports) every morning and thank them for turning up to work. Always greet staff pleasantly – be cheerful, with a warm smile and inquisitive.

2. Acknowledge the employee by their name instead of using a general greeting such as ‘Hi Buddy’, ‘Hi Mate’, etc.

3. Once in a while (once a month or fortnightly), welcome the employee at the entrance and thank them for turning up to work on time. Give them a snack bar or chocolate fish.

4. Demonstrate a positive demeanour. Always present a positive attitude and behaviour that is courteous, respectful, compassionate, and friendly. Make them feel valued. For example :-

- good personal presentation
- smiling
- take the time to talk to the employee (don’t rush)
- ignore negativity and promote positivity
- portray positive body language when dealing with employees : show interest in staff well being
- talk to all staff – don’t play favouritism
- be an advisor to staff – approachable
- provide support and guidance when required

5. Demonstrate effective communication . For example : -

- listen effectively – para phrase, seek clarification if necessary, give feedback
- don’t interfere when staff are talking
- maintain good eye contact
- use an appropriate tone of voice
- be highly observant – read moods

6. Lead by Example. For example :-

- show commitment : be punctual when you come to work or when attending meetings
- maintain work place and work area cleanliness and orderliness
- meet deadlines
- deliver on promises
- work hard – demonstrate additional effort in carrying out duties
- be organised – have a daily plan (goals) and prioritise work
- take responsibility
- show compassion
- share ideas
- be creative, innovative and always thinking outside the box
- admit when you are wrong
- be fair
- be an effective team player

7. Set objectives / goals which are realistic, attainable and achievable.

- share the objectives / goals with staff and get feedback to gauge their understanding
- Set a positive goal for the day.

8. Encourage sharing of ideas and open communication. For example :-

- ask for feedback
- listen to feedback
- encourage discussion with anyone
- be receptive and open with constructive criticism
- be willing to implement new and good ideas
- be prepared to change plan to suit unforeseen circumstances
- provide the outcome of discussion / implementation of ideas

Quotes of the Week :

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more,
you are a LEADER”.

John Quincy Adams