If you are going to lead—wouldn’t you want to lead in a way which creates value in the lives of others and the organizations you lead? I think this would be true for all of us.
The older I get and the longer I lead, the less I care about personal recognition and the more important it is to me that what I’m doing as a leader really matters. Of course, I want to first and foremost honor Christ with my life, but I believe doing so means I would desire to add genuine value to others in my leadership.
How do we do that?
Here are 10 ways to add value as a leader:
Be open to challenge. Everyone has an opinion and they aren’t usually afraid to share it if given an opportunity. Granted, sometimes they do so in less than gracious ways—and that can sting a little. Actually, it can sting a lot. But, you demonstrate humility when you open yourself to correction. Humility is an attractive trait for leaders.
Quickly share credit. You didn’t get where you are without the help of others. Leaders do well to recognize this regularly.
Notice what is missing. The leader should consistently be in a development mindset for the organization. No one else will dream bigger dreams for the organization than you. This shouldn’t translate into never being satisfied or failing to celebrate current success, but leaders should consistently help people see future potential.
Generously offer praise. People appreciate being appreciated.
Remain accessible to people. You may not always be available—there is only so much time in a day, but you can be accessible to people, especially those closest to your leadership. It shows you value them.
Embrace change. I am not sure there is leadership without change. When the leader fails to allow change, things stall for the organization, but also for individuals within it.
Condemn slowly. There are plenty of critics in the world. Leaders do best when they are cheerleading more than fault-finding.
Diligently protect your character. The character of the leader impacts the character of the organization—which impacts everyone in the organization.
Serve others. Jesus said the greatest must be a servant. So it goes for leaders who add value to others.
Take risks. People will be willing to take risks only when leadership is out front, leading with faith, vision and courage.
Any you would add to my list?
This article originally appeared here.