Leadership: It’s Never Too Late.
I am fortunate to work with a few extremely talented business founders. Founders who have built incredibly successful brands. The more they mastered their art, the more successful they became. But how do you explain and teach your secret sauce when you have created it over the years without an explicit recipe? Their company has reached a point where, to continue growing, it is time to delegate, train, and trust; telling is not enough anymore.
I remember the first time I realized additional leadership skills were necessary for my success. The team I joined had zero respect for the management or the company we worked for. And truthfully, respect was not deserved. They showed up to collect a paycheck. How was I supposed to turn the situation around so they could be motivated and successful to get the recognition they deserve? I was facing a far more challenging situation than I had ever experienced. “Welcome to the corporate world!”
My skills until then were tied to my entrepreneurial background: I had a business vision and loved to think strategically and creatively. But my leadership skills were rudimentary. My team was only assisting me. I was friendly and respectful. I used authoritative, pace-setting, and visionary leadership styles.
I expanded my leadership toolbox to include new styles, such as transformational leadership, which motivates individuals to strive for the team’s success; servant leadership, which focuses on prioritizing the needs of the team and organization; and laissez-faire leadership, which emphasizes effective delegation. How? I learned, practiced, asked for feedback, failed, and learned more.
In spite of their experience and success, my clients are eager to learn, grow, and change to evolve as leaders. Witnessing highly accomplished individuals humbly embrace the opportunity to stretch outside their comfort zones is truly inspiring. And, in doing so, achieve even greater success.
Have you reached your ceiling?
