Chameleon Leadership
Like many leaders I have taken multiple “leadership inventories” or assessments. The result of these usually share what kind of leader I am and how I can best lead people. And when I reflect on the results they seem pretty right on for me.
Trainings have been very similar. Sharing what kind of leader I need to be. But the truth is we need to be able to change our leadership based on who we are leading.
Leadership is not about what kind of leader I am, but about what kind of leader people need me to be.
And that can change often. Like a chameleon moving through the forest we need to change our approach based on the people and the situation.
For example, Some people are lazy. They just are. That’s not a judgement call but a realization to the truth of human potential. If I am leading a lazy person the I am going to give them the catalyst to move and get things done.
Other people are fearful and afraid of making a mistake. As a leader I need to be their courage and help them through the situation so they can see and find their own courage or ability.
And then other people are simply exhausted. They have been working hard, making things happen and need me to be “present” and listen. Maybe even take them out for a cup of coffee and be an encouraging support.
Our role as leaders is to be aware and understand the leader people need so we can help them become the best they can be.
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