Focus On Your Role Modeling
General Douglas McArthur once wrote, “A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.” I would say the exact same thing about an exceptional coach. The equality of their actions and the integrity of their intent are essential to their success. Yet, those who struggle in their coaching do not understand that it is how they role model their leadership, not just their problem solving that makes the greatest difference.
When a group of people are trying to get something done, three normal problems surface. First, a leader will often encounter social loafing in a group, where some individuals tend to sit back and let the others do the work. Second, they may encounter production blocking where only one person can talk while the other group members are forced to sit passively and wait. Third, they may encounter evolution apprehension where the fear of looking stupid in front of one’s peers prevents any action to be taken. How we deal with these problems as a leader sets a tone in the organization and impacts coaching. In essence, how we treat others before the coaching starts impacts the coaching more than how we treat people when we coach them. It is the former, i.e. our integrity and our choices to respect people, that impacts the later, i.e. our ability coach people. In short, our role modeling of respect before, during and afterwards is more impactful than the content of our coaching.
Integrity and respect are the foundation of leadership. Role modeling these choices takes courage and compassion. They generate trust and the capacity for people to work together as a team focused on collective results rather than just individual outcomes. Role modeling is a conscious choice to live the message rather than to just give a message.
To be continued on Wednesday.
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