Leadership Isn’t Just About Walking the Walk; It’s About Standing Side-by-Side

In the business world, especially in entrepreneurship, it’s crucial to stay human and uphold empathy, compassion, and integrity. These traits are vital for achieving success. As someone once told me, “People don’t care what you say, but they will always remember how you made them feel.” This idea has become a cornerstone of my approach to business.

You must be strategic and visionary, leading from the front toward your goals. However, true success in business cannot be achieved alone. There’s a fine line between being a boss and being a leader. The key is to ensure your team knows you have their backs because they will, in turn, have yours.

The Role of Empathy and Compassion

Empathy and compassion allow you to understand that life throws curveballs at all of us, and business is no different. Sometimes, we need our team to go above and beyond, pushing projects over the line, even beyond their usual hours or efforts. If you stand side-by-side with them, supporting them, and showing flexibility and understanding when they need it, they will do the same for your company.

Leading by Example

Leadership can sometimes be lost, but to lead from the front and extend your hand to encourage others to thrive and build the life they want is vital. Helping others helps you shine. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the hustle, but taking a step back and remembering that we are all human can elevate your business significantly.

Developing Leadership Skills

Leadership isn’t something we are born with; it’s something that can be developed. Good leaders are moulded through experience, continued study, intentional effort, and adaptation. Leadership is less about one strong or charismatic individual and more about a group of people working collectively to achieve results. Building a team with a fantastic culture, regardless of your level in business, by highlighting each other’s strengths and weaknesses, supports and guides everyone to success.

Boss vs. Leader

A key question to ask yourself is: What is the difference between being a boss and being a leader? Is having authority within your position the best way to lead, or does being a leader come from your ability to influence others?

Understanding and identifying the different personalities within your team, talking their language, and using their strengths to support your business are essential skills. I liken this to being a parent. My own children tend to rebel when I dictate to them and force them to do as they are told. However, understanding the best way to trigger action and achieve the desired result is the most effective way to make things happen while keeping conflicts at a minimum.

When my daughter was younger, we used to encourage a race to get dressed in the morning. We understood her competitive nature and never had fights over getting dressed or rushing the process because she felt in control and eager to join the team effort. This approach not only made mornings smoother but also reinforced a sense of collaboration and mutual respect. Similarly, in leadership, recognizing what motivates your team members and leveraging those insights can lead to a more harmonious and productive work environment.

The Impact of Mentorship

I once had a mentor who understood my personality and what made me tick. When I approached him with a problem, all he said was, “Winners find a way.” Over a decade later, I still love this phrase. It fits my competitive personality and has helped me show my children that there is always a way to achieve the desired outcome, even if it means thinking outside the box.

That one conversation had a huge impact on my business because of his leadership. If he had been a boss, he might have navigated me toward his line of thinking or given orders. Instead, he offered space to find my own path—true leadership. His guidance encouraged me to think for myself and achieve my goals.

The Human Approach in Leadership

Having a human approach in leadership means growing your influence by caring for others, listening to their thoughts and ideas, and sharing the reasons behind your decisions and actions. This approach makes all the difference. People will follow you because they want to, not because they have to.

This is why I love being a coach and mentor. Offering clients the space to expand their zone of genius and navigate paths they might not have considered is incredibly rewarding. When a client says, “What if I’d never met you?” in our first session, you know you’re both aligned in a common mission. There is so much joy in watching others succeed and standing side by side on their journey.

Seeking External Support

Maybe now is the time for you to get someone in to be the outside eyes and ears your business needs to take the next step. Reflect on your leadership style and consider how you can incorporate more empathy, flexibility, and understanding into your approach. Our journey of self-mastery is never-ending. Good luck, and I’d love to know where this chapter takes you.

FAQs

What is the difference between a boss and a leader?
A boss exercises authority and gives orders, while a leader influences and inspires their team, guiding them toward shared goals.

How can empathy and compassion improve leadership?
Empathy and compassion build trust and strong relationships within the team, fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment.

Why is flexibility important in leadership?
Flexibility allows leaders to adapt to the needs of their team, showing that they value their well-being and are willing to accommodate life’s challenges.

How can a mentor impact your leadership style?
A mentor can provide guidance, inspiration, and a different perspective, encouraging you to find your own solutions and develop your leadership skills.

What role does understanding team personalities play in leadership?
Understanding team personalities helps leaders communicate effectively, leverage each team member’s strengths, and create a cohesive and motivated team.

Why should leaders seek external support?
External support can offer new perspectives, identify areas for improvement, and help drive the business to the next level of success.

This article originally appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of CHOICES Magazine