Creating the Right Culture

Albert Einstein: Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others; it is the only means.

Whether leaders realize it or not, they’re always on stage. All eyes are on them; everything they do, no matter how insignificant, is taken as a signal, and their people follow their example…for good or bad. Whatever they intend, and no matter what they write in emails or say in meetings, the true quality of their leadership is measured by the example they set.

A leader’s main purpose is to set the right example; what you do is far more important and instructive than what you say. Your true colors shine through in your actions. And if your signals don’t match your words, you will not win the trust of your team. You will certainly be leading your people by example, but you’ll be leading them in the wrong direction.

So if you want your team to respond to emails timely, do the same. If you want everyone treated with respect, genuinely show that you care and are grateful for their efforts. If you want people to speak the truth, talk to them truthfully. If you tell your people that it’s time to cut costs, you’ll lose their trust and encourage their own deception if you then redecorate your office. After all, you’re sending a very clear signal, and you can bet it won’t be lost on the people who follow your every word and deed.

So leaders must be on their toes to make sure they’re sending the right signals to their team. Even an inadvertent slipup can confuse employees and possibly disenchant them about the quality of your leadership. But if you strive to maintain an honest relationship and good rapport with your staff, mistakes can be rectified and confidence regained. At the end of the day, it is the strength of your example that will allow you to lead with success and create new leaders in your own image.