As a young leader I was noted for lots of energy, a good sense of humour and the ability to get things done. But while I was a “high I”, that is I used my personality to get people to do what I wanted because they like me. However I was too quick to push things along, even roll over people if I couldn’t get my way.

I was too driven.

Over time I realized that leading like that only gets you so far and I began to learn how to lead by listening and posing questions that lead into different thinking. I learned that the leader can have the last word, but the last word shouldn’t be the first word.

The leader cannot be a leader if no one is following.

Those who feel that the office, the title or the role gives you authority to lead are going to be disappointed by their ability to achieve much. The best leaders in my experience have been those who were able to establish a relationship, learn the culture and see what others have not to establish a way forward that people will buy in, you will also earn credibility and confidence!

In building and leading teams you need 4 C’s.

Competency – you must know how to do the job, and well. Without this, the other parts fall apart.

Capacity – if you can’t handle the load, work will bog down, people will be left waiting and you’re credibility will be in question.

Chemistry – and this isn’t just for the leader, it’s for the team. The right people doing the right jobs and in a way that builds trust in the team. Any lack of chemistry must be dealt with or the team will lose their ability to work together.

Character – if you can’t be trusted, if you are seen as saying one thing and doing another, if you are deemed to be working for your own ends, then the team will begin to guard their own interests and you won’t understand the truth of what’s happening and your team will be talking about you behind your back in negative tones.

Leadership matters. Character matters most.

I worked for a couple of people who didn’t have the competency that they should have had, but their character kept me loyal.