Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Aspire to inspire

All of us recognize incompetent leadership. Many of us have worked for an imbecile at some point in our career. Some survived the ordeal, some chose to extricate themselves from the insanity and moved on to other companies, and some were unceremoniously tossed to the curb like yesterday’s trash.

In today’s economy, if you find yourself suffering some fool with a title and authority, you may have few options. So how do you overcome? Better yet, how do you maintain your self respect, continue to perform at a high level, keep your stress level low and maintain a positive attitude?

Never doubt yourself. Show up for work every day, give your all and beat your deadlines. Always be prepared for staff meetings and one-on-one meetings. Do everything you can to minimize the opportunities to be called out for criticism.

Exceed expectations and champion your department. True, the light may shine on your manager, and that might turn your stomach, but some will shine on your colleagues, too, and they will appreciate the recognition the team receives.

Set an example for your peers through your actions and your attitude. Do all you can to maintain unity on the team. Keep everyone focused on the work. Pay compliments with sincerity for accomplishments big and small. If you have the courage, in a staff meeting, give a shout out to a team member. Show them you have their back.Aspire to Inspire

In other words, act like a leader yourself.

Aspire to inspire. And take solace in the knowledge that poor leaders are eventually found out and either neutralized, encouraged to move on or dismissed without remorse.

SIDEBAR:

Have you ever worked for a manager who truly knew how to lead? Are you working for one now? Celebrate and thank her or him today, tomorrow, and the next day. Do so by giving your all every shift with exuberance and pride.

Are you a leader who inspires? Thank you! You are appreciated.

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