Comments on: Leadership Definitions

By: Angela Franklin

Angela Franklin — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 23:19:55 +0000

I personally like the verb definitions. I feel this represents a great leader in my eyes. The noun definitions sound too impersonal or cold. Part of being a great leader is being in touch with people and not just being at the top or front of something.

By: Kathleen Bautz

Kathleen Bautz — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 18:11:30 +0000

This is a great idea, Barb, to have a discussion and gather ideas about leadership…it is such a huge word and as you pointed out, it can be defined with many different meanings and actions. Thanks for doing this.

I liked the comments, too, especially about learning the culture or “state of mind” of the group being led. It seems important to know your audience. I have often made the mistake of assuming we were all on the same page.

By: Saqib Ali

Saqib Ali — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:37:42 +0000

Hi Barb,

Add this to the blog. It will make sharing of blogposts easier.

By: Nick Hawley

Nick Hawley — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:21:50 +0000

I like what John Maxwell says “Leadership is influence, plain and simple”. It’s fun to see the comments on this blog, and think about the different types of leaders. Mark sets the direction and really lead from the front, others steer the ship from the rear, but all are very effective influencers and leaders.

By: James Hines

James Hines — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:44:35 +0000

I think there is also an aspect of leadership that includes being aware of the current state-of-mind of the group being lead, such that the leader knows when it is appropriate to be dynamic, engaged and forceful, and when to step into the background and just provide guidance. A leader must be perceptive.

Leadership is a great topic for a blog. I look forward to further posts.

By: Steve Becker

Steve Becker — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:41:14 +0000

One of the best things I have learned in the leadership roles that I have held is to not only ask to be reviewed by those above you, since there is always someone above you, but also to seek out constructive criticisms from your peers as well as your reports. Some professionals that I have met feel that this is a sign of weakness to your “troops” but I think it shows those that you are leading how much you really are working WITH them, while also being the driving force in leading them as well.

By: Sherre Collins

Sherre Collins — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 02:23:01 +0000

One aspect of leadership that I try to keep in the forefront is to paint a clear picture of our goals and objectives, and a concrete articulation of what success would look like. Then I “paint the white lines” for my team to stay within, and ask them to help me drive us forward.

By: Barb

Barb — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:04:21 +0000

Phil – Thanks for sharing your perspectives on leadership, I think you have captured some of the important attributes of great leaders!

By: Phil Lundrigan

Phil Lundrigan — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:32:56 +0000

I have given this some thought as I’ve sent out so many resumes that say I’m a leader. What do I mean when I say I’m a leader? Here is what I came up with: I provide leadership by setting vision and rallying people to the cause; effectively delegating; holding others accountable; and giving and receiving trust.

I’ve also heard it said that a leader credits the team with successes and takes responsibility for the failures.

By: Barb

Barb — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:25:17 +0000

Thanks for visiting my site and adding your comments!