Leading with Values: Because Fake It Till You Make It Doesn't Work in Leadership
In the cutthroat world of leadership, where authenticity often takes a back seat to ambition, it's time to reconsider the old adage of "fake it till you make it." Aligning your management style with your values is critical. Otherwise, you come across as disingenuous. And let’s be honest, employees can see right through their manager when behavior doesn’t match what’s being said. If a leader says they value trust but is constantly micromanaging the team, are they really trusting?
Instead, let's explore why aligning your leadership style with your personal values isn't just a touchy-feely concept, but a strategic move for success. In a world where values-based leadership is gaining momentum, here are the top three reasons why it's crucial:
1. Trust is the New Currency
Imagine a leader who claims to value trust but constantly hovers over their team like a helicopter, “checking in” all hours of the day. It's like setting a goal to eat better and devouring a chocolate cake the next day. Aligning your leadership style with your values builds trust. When your team sees consistency between what you say and what you do, they're more likely to buy into your vision and follow your lead. Remember, in the currency of leadership, trust is the gold standard.
2. You're Not Gandhi (And That's Okay)
Sure, Mahatma Gandhi aligned his values of nonviolence, truth, and equality with his leadership principles, inspiring millions. But let's face it, not everyone can pull that off without some serious self-reflection. Aligning your values doesn't mean copying someone else's playbook. It's about understanding your unique values and weaving them into your leadership style. Whether you're a charismatic cheerleader or a laissez-faire advocate, embracing your authentic self can be a game-changer.
3. No One Wants a Drama Queen (or King) in the Boardroom
In a world where drama should be reserved for the box office, not the workplace, aligning your leadership style with values can keep the theatrics at bay. Emphasize a drama-free zone where performance, respect, and gratitude reign supreme. By setting clear expectations based on your values, you create an environment where everyone knows the rules, and the focus is on achieving goals, not staging a soap opera.
Now, how do you turn this idealistic notion into a reality? Here are three ways to align your leadership style with your values, presented in a way that even your most skeptical team members might appreciate:
1. State Your Intentions (and Don't Make It Sound Like a Corporate Memo)
Start by crafting a personal mission statement that sounds more like a conversation and less like a legal document. Share your purpose and values with your team in a way that doesn't induce eye-rolls. Make it clear that these are not just words on paper; they're the guiding principles for your team's success.
2. Behave Consistently (No, Really!)
Actions speak louder than words, especially in leadership. Regularly evaluate your decisions and actions against your stated values. If there's a misalignment, address it openly. Be the leader who practices what they preach, not the one who preaches and hopes no one notices the contradiction. And if you slip up, acknowledge it, because no one's perfect, not even leaders.
3. Seek Feedback (Without the Usual Office Jargon)
Create a culture of honest feedback. Don't just ask, "How am I doing?" Instead, foster an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts. Maybe organize a monthly "Values & Vibes" session, where discussions revolve around how well the team is living up to the shared values. Remember, feedback is a two-way street; be open to learning from your team as much as they learn from you.
In the end, leading with values is not just a leadership trend; it's a proven strategy for success. So, embrace your values, align your leadership style, and watch as your team rallies behind you. After all, in the wise words of Alexander Hamilton, "If you stand for nothing, you'll fall for anything." And in the world of leadership, falling is not an option.