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Leaders: Are You a Turkey or Eagle Magnet?

“Turkeys travel in packs. You have to find eagles one at a time.” —John Maxwell

Earlier today, I was driving to the office and noticed five turkeys along the road huddled together. I pulled over and took a picture to illustrate a leadership truth. 

It is difficult to attract and retain leaders. John is right when he says you find them one at a time. On the other hand, it is easy to find turkeys. They are everywhere.

As a leader, you are either an eagle magnet or a turkey magnet. 

Let me explain.

If you are having difficulty attracting or retaining leaders, the problem may be found in one or more of the following ten reasons:

1. Lack of Vision.

Leaders are attracted to vision. More specifically, they are attracted to BIG vision. For a leader to leave where they are and follow you, you must point them to a brighter tomorrow.

2. Lack of Accomplishment.

Leaders, by definition, are going somewhere and doing something. They will not be reduced to a level of mediocrity by environments of maintenance.

3. Lack of Generosity.

Yes, financial compensation is very important. Leaders have options, so don’t be cheap. However, organizational generosity is important as well. Are you serving the poor? Are you involved in your community? Do you treat those on your team generously? Does your church or organization have a culture of generosity?

4. Lack of Effort.

Leaders are in high demand. You must make the effort to go and get them. They are not just going to show up at your door. More importantly, you must work even harder to keep them.