What does leadership look like in the workplace?

"Perspective" gives readers the opportunity to find out the real truth behind authentic leadership in the workplace, through open and honest sharing regarding "on the job" leadership training.

Is it possible to lead effectively in difficult times without compromising personal values? Can a leader stay aligned and in touch with personal core values when faced with tough situations and misunderstandings?

Many times, during difficult situations, leaders are called on to make tough decisions... even unpopular decisions, that cause them to be misunderstood. Often, these kinds of situations require tremendous focus under pressure. Our desire to be understood and liked, takes on new meaning when challenged by unexpected obstacles, confrontations in the workplace, unwarranted blame, apathy, workplace gossip and backbiting, disillusion and unrealized expectations, and choking time and work-related demands. When the opportunity comes for us to stand and be counted, for doing "the right thing" under difficult circumstances, we often doubt ourselves and question our ability to lead in the face of opposition, turmoil, and failure.

At some point in our lives, and on our jobs, we've all been there. "Perspective" offers an opportunity for leaders to share their insights about this kind of "leading during difficult times." Each leader will share experiences from his or her point of view. Their insights and opinions do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of Marti Miller at www.praiseleadership.com .

"Perspective" will introduce you to leaders in our area who hold positions of responsibility and influence. They are thriving in their careers and have shared in these kinds of struggles. They openly share their stories knowing that the greatest successes in the workplace come from helping others to succeed.

"Perspective" is written by authentic leaders who know that experience can be a great teacher.   If you'd like to share your "Perspective" , email marti@praiseleadership.com I reserve the right to publish or not.

Know what you value. Become what you value.

The Seven Essentials of Encouraging the Heart in the Workplace

Underlying the practice of encouraging the heart, there is a set of recognizable, teachable, and repeatable actions leaders must take. They are essential to making people feel special and reinforcing the standards of excellence needed for any successful enterprise.

These seven essential actions are:

Setting clear standards. Know what you value. Become what you value. Expecting the best. Expect it from yourself and of others. Paying attention. Listen first. Listen for the real message in people's hearts. Personalizing recognition. Tell something good! People need to hear it! Telling the story. Story telling is one of the oldest ways to convey the values and ideals shared by a group of people or community. Good stories move us, touch us, teach us, and make us remember. Tell something good about your community. Share it with others! Setting the example.

Leadership Lesson

The seven essentials of encouraging the heart are core leadership skills. They are not just about showing people they can win for the sake of making them feel good. When striving to raise quality, start up a new service, or make dramatic changes of any kind, leaders must make sure that people experience in their hearts a fundamental belief necessary for success...

The things they do truly matter and make a difference.

As a leader, make it your job to encourage the heart.