7 Ways Leaders Set the Example

Are you a leader or a follower? Do you take up the reigns and lead you, your co-workers, and/or your customers, down the path to problem solution? Are you helping to set the example for your team, or just doing the minimal required to get by? Even if you are not the designated (or "paid" leader), that should not stop you from having a go-get-em attitude of leadership. Some people "think" they are leading, but soon find no one is following, so it does take more than just an attitude of thinking you are leading. Some people are paid to lead, and designated as the leader, but in fact do not display or even have the traits necessary to be a leader.



A true leaders sets a great example and is someone that others feel confident in following. A leader leads the group, and is not the one who sits behind and just pushes. A true leader is just that - someone who leads and not just someone who has a title. The phrase "leading by example" is very applicable.



Have you ever been in a situation where you needed help, and you asked for assistance from a customer service representative, only to find them unsure of how to help you? Your confidence in their abilities quickly causes you to question their overall assistance and eventual solution, doesn’t it? On the opposite spectrum, you can have an experience with someone who immediately displays an attitude of authority and confidence, quickly leading you to a solution.



So, what are some important traits for such a true leader?



Attitude - Do you have the attitude of a leader? You need to put forth a positive and always proactive attitude that seeks to confidently attack and solve any problem...with a smile.



Trust - Be the first to act, take the lead, and make sure all of your actions in all situations, are positive and trustworthy. Deception and twisting the truth is a bad way to "help" customers, and in the long run will damage the company's reputation.



Learning - Never act like a know-it-all. You can always learn, and having an attitude of a learner is the best way to get others to learn. Leaders teach others in all they do, so be a good teacher by portraying the attitude of being a learner yourself. A know-it-all who just barks orders is not necessarily a true leader.



Expectations - Do not set your expectations too high for others, trying to force them into attempting the unlikely. Set the standard, then raise the expectation in others by building confidence in them, and letting them know you believe they can accomplish it. Then lead them to fulfilling that expectation.



Questions - Again, do not just bark orders and demand results. Stop, allow others to ask questions, and always be a promoter of learning and understanding. People will have more confidence in you and themselves, if they fully understand what is being set before them, and what the expectations are. Let them ask questions and seek clarification, and remember, the only stupid question is the one never asked. Never belittle or criticize someone for asking a question.



Listening - Obviously if you allow questions to be asked, you must also listen to their question. Confidence in a leader is gained only when others think they are being heard and not brushed off. People are more likely to follow someone if they feel that person is hearing and understanding them and care what they think. While what they say may not alter the game plan, just knowing they are being heard goes a lot further and instills more confidence in your leadership skills, than shutting the door on them and ignoring their comments.



Take the lead - set the example - find a solution.



Jeff McCormack resides in Virginia Beach, VA. where he works as a web designer by day. In his off time he is a husband, father, and musician. Aside from being a freelance writer for this Customer Service Jobs blog, he also seeks to assist in career choices and information by contributing to other Nexxt blog sites.