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Effective Leaders Will Do These 7 Things TODAY

What makes an effective leader these days?

I was asked that question recently and I had to think for a moment. The question was asked in a way that caused me to believe the questioner felt my answer would be different today than 10 or 20 years ago. Would it?

Is leading any different today than in years past?

Well, it’s a good question, and I’m not going to attempt to answer it in this post (how’s that for dodging a question?), but let me attempt to put some answers to the question I was actually asked.

What makes an effective leader these days?

Perhaps in thinking through that question, we’ll find answers to the question this question raised in me.

Here are seven things leaders must do to be effective “today”:

1. Think bigger.

Leaders don’t have the luxury of “resting in the moment” for long. Celebrate, yes.

But, then the leader must begin thinking “What’s new?” “What’s next?” or “What needs improving?” Things are changing fast, and to keep up, you’ll have to always be thinking beyond today.

2. Include others.

There once may have been a day where a solo leader could flourish, but those days are gone.

People want a seat at the table of decision. Information can no longer be controlled. (Not that it ever should have been, but it was easier. We can Google most anything today.)

Reclusive leaders aren’t trusted, and therefore not followed far. In the process, they waste valuable talent and opportunities from people on their team.

3. Remain positive.

Leading isn’t easy. To say it is would mean life is easy … and it isn’t.

Leading involves navigating through ups and downs, and the successful leader will be the one who can keep people anxiously and excitedly looking forward through each season.

On dark days, a leader must point people toward better days … toward hope.