The Altruistic Leader... Part II

Previously, we delved into what altruism is; and confirmed that
indeed, altruism is an essential trait of a True Leader. For as we
know, a Leader can not keep pushing his agenda instead of a vision
that is beneficial to all, while neglecting his people on the other end.

What will happen then? A leader would lose his men to sickness,
betrayal or rebellion that would affect shared objectives in the long
run.

To lead is not only to know where you are going, but to be aware
of your back as well.

This calls for relationship building subtly incorporated in a Leader's
people skills.

Making Time To Lead
If I am to achieve a relationship with my colleagues which enables
us all to give our best, there needs to be a limit to the number which
directly report to me. A need to identify necessitates on both sides
the giving of time. Time to understand the other person, find out
what makes him tick, what are his strengths and weaknesses and
whether there are short cuts in getting through to that person for the
purpose of getting things done effectively. One of the great benefits
of a well established relationship is that it reduces the need for
lengthy dialogue although it does not and never should eliminate
regular briefing sessions.

Regrettably, we do not always have the time or, worse still, find the
time to get to know many of our colleagues well enough to exercise
this advantage. Leadership necessitates a two way acceptance of
a special relationship; it has to be built on mutual trust and respect
but it involves also a complex matrix of skills and sensitive
perceptions, perhaps the most important of all, listening and hearing;
the two are not necessarily synonymous. If I had to summarize what
leadership means to me, it would be the understanding and sharing
of a common purpose... without that, there can not be effective
leadership. (Ann Mansell, Texales Ltd. - CEO)

Mind you, we are dealing with people with feelings not robots. Yet,
a Leader does not necessarily have to drink with the gang. Getting
tipsy with anyone connected to his company is a sign of weakness.
It shows out of control.

Better still, treat all people as special. As Jeffrey J. Fox suggested,
excellent leaders make people feel that they...

... are asked, not questioned...
... are overpaid, not underpaid...
... are measured, not monitored...
... are people, not personnel...
... are sold on what to do, not told...
... are instrumental, not instruments...
... are workers, not worked...
... are contributors, not costs...
... are needed, and heeded.

See, people skills would not be as effective without sincerity. While
sincerity is seen in how naturally you practice altruism. And genuine
altruism echoes outside your organization onto your friends, business
associates and of course, your network connections.

Certainly, if you want to push your career or business to your
satisfaction... it would do well to apply generosity like rays of the sun.
As we call it in business... "word of mouth"; and this is how to build a
successful career or understanding. It all starts with genuine altruism.

Again, why did you network? For further collaboration?

That's fine... but then, the future starts now.

If you wait for the "perfect" time, for the "perfect" new product, for
conditions to be just right, you will never get started. Realize that
even the greatest of companies and products have been improved
since their beginning. Do not let "perfect" be the enemy of "better."

Procrastination ruins the path to success.

Your legacy begins with what you can do for others... NOW.

Remember...
"Altruism builds trust. Trust ignites cooperation. Cooperation powers ACHIEVEMENT."