Lead-IN for Leaders

Seeing is not the same as looking. Someone said: “Eyes that look are common; eyes that see are rare.” I think the difference comes down to observation vs. discernment. It’s common for leaders to observe trends and processes and identify what’s working and what’s not. Leadership decisions made through casual observation happen every day. However,…

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted…” – Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 (ESV) Leading in an ongoing, ever-changing world requires adaptation. Businesses, ministries, churches, or corporations who…

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” – Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV) Long-time CEO Jack Welsh, reflecting on the long history of General Electric, commented: “It’s embarrassing to reflect…

Influential leaders recognize the benefits of trust. Productivity increases when employees trust management. Sales and repeat business flourish when customers trust your business. Trust grows when you do what you say you will do. It’s called integrity.  Creating confidence requires ongoing attention and diligence. Too often, our “Trust Barometer” is neglected. Sales are not where…

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17 (ESV) Sometimes we find ourselves in an unexpected or unwanted leadership role. We didn’t pursue or ask for the position. But unplanned events beyond our control place us there. A project director suddenly falls ill, and you’re asked to lead the campaign to completion.…

Our world is increasingly uncertain. The global economy is complicated and unpredictable. Team members in any business, ministry, or corporation need leaders who radiate confidence. Assured leaders inspire passion and energy. Their clarity motivates others to act, provides a sense of security and ownership, and their confidence becomes contagious. However, effective leadership requires more than…

My mother wasn’t a businesswoman. She never held a corporate position or even worked in a business. She was a mother, wife, and a “director” of three unruly boys! So, perhaps she had more leadership skills than what her apron-clad appearance revealed. When my misbehavior created conflict with my brothers or friends, she would pull…

When leaders ignore the development of trust, change of any kind is more challenging. Creating trust is essential; a top priority if we intend to lead others out of the status quo, beyond the present, and to the future. Adapting to change requires trust. Trust is the bedrock that supports change. When trust is strong,…