How to Lead by Example
As a leader, it is important to understand that your team members are constantly observing. They are observing their colleagues and most often they are observing you as the leader. They are doing this to see how it is acceptable to behave.
They are also seeing if there is alignment between your actions and words. When there is alignment then trust and respect are built. When there isn’t alignment then distrust and frustration rise.
So how do you lead by example?
Two foundational principles:
You need to be clear on the values and expectations and communicate these.
You need to build relationships with your team members and show them that you care about them.
When these two things are in place then your actions will have far greater impact!
Leading by example is about embodying the values and demonstrating the expected behavior. It is the level to which you are doing this and how consistent you are with it. By doing this at a high level and consistently you are setting a positive example for the appropriate behavior of your team. The team members will notice this and will be more likely to participate in this behavior themselves.
Example 1: Communication is a value. By asking thoughtful questions and demonstrating active listening you are living this value.
Example 2: Accountability is a value. You follow through on what you said you would do and hold others accountable in a constructive way.
Example 3: Attention to detail is an expectation. You send out the agenda before the meeting and are efficient in how the meeting is run.
Another part of leading by example is being willing to get your hands dirty. This requires you at times to do the challenging tasks that you are asking others to do.
What leading by example isn’t.
It isn’t about being perfect. You are going to make mistakes and not live up to the values at times. This is part of being human. When this happens it is about taking ownership and learning from your mistakes.
It isn’t working 24/7. People don’t need to see you always working. They do need to see you have a strong work ethic and a high level of focus when you are at work.
Leading by example is a foundational piece of leadership. By doing this well you are setting a strong foundation and allowing yourself to thrive in other areas of your leadership.
