Can a leader make all the difference?

Great organisations, average organisations and failing organisations hinge on one important thing: the leader. Leadership, in a real sense, is everything.

A few years ago I worked with a large organisation as a client. My role was to facilitate a customised personal development programme. What was clear was the presence and admiration of this leader. He took keen interest in his staff. Although more than 800 employees under one roof – he sought to know names, their backgrounds and cared – whilst under scrutiny and pressure to perform to the board and an international customer base high on quality and zero defects. Often he would walk into a session, unannounced just to sit back and listen to 10 minutes of the discussion. He would then ask questions, share stories, give hope and encouragement – and affirm every person and their value. Here was a leader who balanced high performance expectations with support and care from his people.

Demands change, markets shift, politics abound, internal battles of envy and selfishness may occur – and all organisations may have to deal with these. But, having the right leader on top can never be underestimated. Owners of a business place trust in a leader with their investments and assets – to shape the future and provide them a return on investment.

Successful leaders today should be:

  • Visionary
  • Committed
  • Inspiring
  • Willing to listen
  • Tough on results
  • Supportive
  • Intelligent (yes, and yes emotionally)
  • Long Term thinkers
  • Focus on the values
  • Quick to forget the things that distract

More organisations need leadership development. Leadership is not just the role of one person; but everyone is a leader in some way – albeit they leader families, others and themselves. To the extent that one can learn to see the big picture, have perspective, evaluate risks and rewards, remember the main thing, develop decision making – can one start to emerge as better leaders.

Anil Salick

Anil Salick

Strategist, Facilitator, Coach, Writer. Shares about inspiration, leadership, critical thinking, fun, sports and current events.