3 Myths That Leaders Must Overcome Today
Updated: Nov 18, 2020
“I’m a leader now. I’m in charge of helping my employees, giving advice, having all of the answers and I don’t want to ever appear to be weak.” If you’re saying these things to yourself as a new leader, we challenge you to seek the real truth that great leaders understand.
Myth #1: I don’t want to seem incompetent
Truth: By asking for help, you're becoming a role model for your team. You’re showing an example of help-seeking behavior that sets up a more open culture. You're showing your team that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but is smart and collaborative.
Myth #2: I don’t want my team to not see me as a leader
Truth: Great leaders ask probing questions and get input from employees. Team members will feel extra valued that the boss wants their opinion! Not only will they feel involved, but feel honored you chose to ask them.
Myth #3: I have to be the smartest person in the room
Truth: The stronger your employees are, the stronger your department will be, the stronger your company will be. Your job is to understand and articulate the broader picture, while your employees become masters of their work. The smartest thing you can do as a leader, is hire and retain the smartest people.
Some of the most well-known leaders like Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg all know that the best way to succeed and have an engaged workforce is to hire people smarter than they are. Give it a try. Asking employees for help gets you more insightful information and your employees will thrive because they feel valued and trusted.
Have a few more minutes? Read this short article by Cal Turner, former CEO, Dollar General Corporation (The Dollar Store) If You're the Smartest Person In the Room, You're Probably Not a Good Leader
Ready to look into leadership training to tackle this issue? Email Margie@EmergeApproach.com or call 303-809-8093.