Last week I attended a professional development institute for association executive staff and heard an inspiring presentation from Jason Jennings, best-selling author of Think Big Act Small. Using his soon to be published (and titled) new book as a guide, Jason spoke about common traits of CEOs who have created the greatest amount of economic value for their organizations.
In his presentation, Jennings offered four guiding principles.
Great leaders turn what they do into a cause
A cause should be big and bold, inclusive, and reveal why you do what you do. It fixes something. It gives meaning to people’s lives, building purpose, passion, momentum and culture.
By way of example, at MAAR, our cause is to build, manage and promote an organized real estate market that is efficient, transparent and robust. What is your cause?
Great leaders master the art of letting go
Great leaders know how to replace yesterday’s bread winners (e.g. services and products). It exemplifies the bigger, better, bolder concept. It does not embrace the same-old-same-old. It includes letting go of ego.
According to Jennings, when you let go 1) you are better able to deal with change, 2) you stay more focused than your rivals and 3) innovation happens.
Great leaders get their people to think and act like owners
Great leaders emphasize creating economic value. People are rewarded on the economic value they create and everyone is held accountable. Decision rights are directed to the right people, the one with the right knowledge or skills, the one who produces economic value.
Great leaders are stewards
Service supersedes self interest, as great leaders demonstrate stewardship of employees, members, customers and shareholders. Abandoning power and dominion, they are available, demonstrate values and keep their hands working in the dirt. These leaders feel called to serve, are coaches and mentors, and are driven to leave their organization better.
I was impressed that before speaking to a room of over 1,000 people, Jennings walked the lobby and spoke individually to as many attendees as possible. The principles he taught apply across the field of disciplines and serve as a wonderful guide to effective, principled leadership.
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