As leaders we are all challenged to develop those around us. To do so we must:

C         Build the team: we must enhance collaboration among team members by creating trust. As the members of a team interact freely with each other and communicate openly, the start trusting each other and a climate of trust develops. Personal relationships are formed and the team becomes a cohesive integrated unit.

C         Strengthen the team: a good leader realizes that the only way to become more powerful is to delegate power. As team members are given choices and allowed to decide they develop a sense of responsibility and accountability.  Also, the best leaders take the time to train and develop their team members.  They strengthen their abilities and competencies and they build their confidence.  Only then can the extraordinary be achieved.

C         Develop new leaders: as the leader of an organization, we have the duty to turn team members into leaders. Coach them, offer them support and let them know they can decide for themselves, but will be accountable for their decisions. I still remember my mentor when I first came into banking who told me that he would probably never fire me for making the wrong decision, but he would surely fire me if I refused to make decisions. It is a lesson I have never forgotten.

C         Give recognition: if you expect your team members to be excellent performers, you have to celebrate their victories, make recognition personal and be personally involved in the celebration.  It is your example that leads, not just your words. You are the most important leader.

“Too many of us wait to do the perfect thing, with the result that we do nothing.  The way to get ahead is to start now.”

William Feather