LEADERSHIP: WHERE ARE WE GOING? AND, WHY?

Alexander the Great is one of history's great leaders. Two thousand years ago, at the head of his Macedonian army, he unified Greece. And, then led a combined army to conquer their ancient enemy, the Persians. The objectives were clear and it all made sense for his generals and troops. However, after four years, he was still dragging them eastward - arriving eventually in northern India. But, his army no longer cared. Alexander was forced to turn back.

To be effective leaders, we need a clear vision for whatever we're running. And, need to make it (and keep it) understandable. This is true whether the challenge is to start, build, maintain or turnaround your business. But, unlike Alexander, you can't kill those who stand against us.

If I interviewed your team, what would they reply if I asked: "What's the vision: what's your boss trying to create here?"

As a consultant, here are responses I hear all too often. "A clear vision? What a joke; even our one-year goals are vague." "And, we're out of touch with our markets; and, our plans are woolly." "Alignment? No; we all do our own thing."

Think about those topics: vision, goals, marketplace, plans, alignment. Ask yourself: what leadership actions do I need to take to convince my team that following me is a good idea?

All of which begs a larger question. Where can I turn for help? One alternative is to read a book (or yet another book) on leadership. It will give you lots of anecdotes and the writer will share his or her generalisations. That will cost you time and money. However, here's a simpler, less expensive option.

Based on years of consulting to owners and executives of businesses, I've developed a unique, three-step process to find where your people feel you're already taking effective leadership action - and thereby answering their concerns. And, more importantly, the leadership actions they'd recommend going forward.

Categories for this Potshot:

Great-leader Potshots, Define goals and outcomes, Understand your marketplace, Develop plans and actions lists,

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