Leaders Lead: Through Action and Example

Leaders Lead: Through Action and Example

As a facilitator of workshops focused on driving business impact, team dynamics and positive disruption, I've come to realize that there is a big misconception on leadership. Most people think that leadership is giving orders and making decisions from the comfort of an office – or the “ivory tower”. But, I see it differently. To me, true leadership is about leading by example, about embodying the values and behaviors we want to see in our teams.

One of the most telling signs of a team's culture is the behavior of its leader during workshops and meetings. It's not about what they say, but rather what they do that speaks volumes. Do they actively engage with the team, listen attentively and participate in discussions? Or do they distance themselves, buried behind a screen, only occasionally glancing up to offer a distracted nod?

Too often, I've witnessed leaders who bring their laptops or phones to meetings, treating them as a priority over the people in the room. They might be physically present, but mentally, they're elsewhere – answering emails, taking calls, or succumbing to various distractions. Their actions send a clear message to their team: "This workshop, meeting, etc (what you're doing right now) is only important for you, not for me."

But leadership shouldn't be about prioritizing one's own agenda over the collective goals of the team. It's about fostering an environment where everyone builds trust in a shared experience, understanding the same lessons, and feels valued and heard. When leaders demonstrate genuine interest and active participation, it sets a powerful example for others to follow. It shows that all member's contributions are essential, that their time and efforts are respected.

So, how can we become better leaders in these situations? Here are some actionable steps:

Lead with Presence: Make a conscious effort to be fully present during meetings and workshops. Put away distractions like phones and laptops, and give your team members your undivided attention. Active listening and engagement go a long way in showing your team that you value their input. What you say when you do this: “You are important to me. I’m listening to you.”

Set Clear Expectations: Communicate your expectations for behavior during meetings. Let your team know that you expect everyone to be actively engaged and participate in discussions. By setting clear expectations, you create a culture of accountability where everyone understands their role. What you say when you do this: “We’re in this together.”

Lead by Participation: Don't just sit back and observe – actively participate in discussions and activities. Share your insights and perspectives, and encourage others to do the same. Leading by participation shows your team that you're invested in the work and value their contributions. What you say when you do this: “I am vulnerable, and I hope you can be too.”

Be Mindful of Body Language: Your body language can convey a lot about your engagement and interest. Maintain eye contact, nod in agreement, and use positive gestures to show your support. Your team will pick up on these cues and feel more connected to you as a leader. What you say when you do this: “I’m actively listening and involved.”

By implementing these actionable steps, you can become a more effective leader and create a culture where every team member feels valued and motivated to contribute their best. Remember, leadership is not just about what you say – it's about the example you set through your actions. Come on leaders, LEAD!