Lesson on Leadership

I recently came across a quote on leadership that has been on mind for a few days:

A good leader takes a little more than his share of the blame, a little less than his share of the credit. 

Arnold H. Glasow

Being a leader isn't about how great we can become. It's about how great we can make those around us!

I've interviewed a lot of maintenance managers since launching D.O.M. magazine in 2008. There were some good leaders and some great ones. Those I would consider great had some traits in common:

• Giving credit when credit is due
• Taking accountability for mistakes
• Humility
• Passion
• Empathy
• Professionalism

This isn't an all-inclusive list, but you get the piont. The worst bosses I have met had a "What's in it for me?" attitude. They did whatever it took to advance in their career, even if it meant stepping on people along the way. They would criticize workers in public, and rarely compliment someone. If they did, it would be behind closed doors. I wouldn't even call them leaders. They are just managing the department, putting out fires and barely keeping everything going.

As we come to the end of 2017, maybe we should reflect on how we can become better leaders. It's never too late to change bad habits. Sure, it will take some time to earn back the trust others in our company, but if we make an honest effort to improve, others will see it.

Each issue of D.O.M. magazine offers tips on how we can improve as leaders. Reflect on how you can use the advice to become a better leader!

Thanks for reading!

Joe