Do you want to be a Leader? Time for a Look in the Mirror

2 Minute ReadDo you want to be a leader? If I asked this in a room full of people, I’d probably get a unanimous head nod…Yes. The next question is, though…Do people around you see you as a leader?There comes a time in every person’s career where we have to stop, take a step back, and look in the mirror. Ask yourself, “Is my behavior demonstrating what I intend it to?" We view ourselves through our intentions. Others view us through our behaviors. What are your behaviors (how you act) communicating with others?If you’re like most leaders when you were just starting out you were given plenty of support and guidance. You were probably coached and mentored in some way. But as you move up the ladder, the honest and useful feedback becomes much scarcer.Times change. And responsibilities and pressures usually change how we behave. You may havedeveloped some bad habits. Behaviors that once worked may become a thing of the past as the world changes. Is anyone helping you? Or giving you honest feedback on your leadership behaviors?

Here are a few questions you should stop and ask yourself:

• Do I provide coaching and give challenging assignments?
• What types of events create pressure for me? How do I behave under pressure?
• How often do I communicate the vision of our company/division/department?
• Have I clearly communicated what our priorities are?
• How do I spend my time? Does it match my priorities?
• Is my leadership style reflective of who I really am?
• Do I give people timely and direct feedback that they can act on?
• Do I have someone that will give me honest feedback?

A leader’s actions are watched closely by co-workers and employees. We’re always in the spotlight. Successful leaders take a step back and evaluate themselves, assessing results to expectations.Have you looked in the mirror lately? What do people see?For all things leadership click here!