Leadership is not all about serving.
Apparently, there’s another side of leadership. It can be less effective if the main priority is earning everyone’s approval. Learning how to be a successful leader includes becoming comfortable doing or saying things that are best for the team and the organization, even if it makes the leader unpopular. Being open to new ideas is another quality of an effective leader. Good leaders are adaptable and flexible, not resistant to change. Most often, these characters are seen in Rotary, and they are personable and open to hearing ideas that differ from their own – and these are defined to positive leaders which inspire others. If there are performance gaps, leaders take the time to advise and train the individual before rewarding them for a job well done. Good leaders inspire their team members to perform at their highest level in both good and bad circumstances.
In fact, everyone gained insight into what makes a successful leader during the past year. Over the COVID-19 pandemic, there were many instances where questionable leadership led to errors, but now that the end is in sight, we can clearly identify who rose to the top during such a turbulent year. The Rotary community, both Rotarians and Rotaractors alike, share a common denominator. Clearly, having effective communication is the first step in managing an organization that does project implementation and team building. Good leaders say what they mean and mean what they say, whether they are communicating via email or giving direct feedback to staff members. Good leaders don’t avoid confronting problems head-on or engage in passive-aggressive behavior. As a matter of fact, many effective leaders aren’t hesitant to convey how much they enjoy what they do. Even if personal and professional interests don’t align perfectly, anyone can still be a successful leader. Always consider the favorite aspects of volunteerism, and focus the excitement there. With that, leaders might even discover that leading can bring more happiness and even fulfilment.
Are these present in the Rotarians and Rotaractors that you know? One essential trait of a strong leader is the capacity to establish fruitful connections. Strong leaders don’t perceive others as a danger. Instead of defending their functions, they are always fostering relationships with others. An effective leader actively seeks out relationships that will benefit both parties. Moreover, top leaders are aware that leading by example plays a crucial role in developing effective leaders. Good leaders demonstrate that they are prepared and willing to do whatever they would expect of their members, whether it is putting in extra hours on a significant project or treating others with respect and care.
Being a lifelong learner is maybe the most crucial quality in a strong leader. Nowadays, leaders prioritize continuous learning through their members such as developing their management abilities in degree programs, or through regular attention to other project engagements. A good leader is constantly curious especially now that the world is going back to its usual state – a state where the community faces different challenges by, to and from the people.
