Do You See You The Same Ways Others Do?

By Richard Brody

One of the greatest challenges that many in leadership face that they often are either unprepared or not even aware of, is possessing a false or inaccurate perception of how others perceive them and their activities/ actions. It should be mandated of all new leaders that they take a step back before they even begin, and objectively evaluate whether their personal perception is similar to that of others. How many times have you met or conversed with someone who seems to actually believe that they are far different individuals than their actions or public persona indicate to others? In most of these cases, we hear someone tell us about their personal integrity, desire to provide value to others, sincerity and positive traits, that often appear to be in direct contradiction to what others perceive. Of course, this could have several meanings: either they truly believe what they are saying and either are poor at communicating this; they truly believe what they say but are somewhat delusional; they enjoy hearing themselves talk; they major in empty and unsupported rhetoric; or they are purposely distorting the truth and facts.

1. There is an essential need for great leaders to have both the ability and willingness to objectively view themselves. Ask yourself the question, "Would you like and trust you?" Are your words in sync with your actions? Do you strive to get things done, or do you overly rely on empty rhetoric? Are you likeable? Are you truthful, both with yourself and others? It is important for any leader to understand and realize that he must first be honest with himself, before he can have any actual possibility of being perceived as honest, and actually behaving honestly. Each leader must come to the realization that there is no integrity unless it is absolute, and there can be no exceptions. Therefore, impactful leaders attract followers because their integrity and value - oriented approach is in sync with their ideals and values, and others are able to realize that leader really cares about them. In doing so, he is able to attract others to his cause, and potentiate and strengthen his actions.

2. Do you have any unique or exceptional qualities, characteristics or traits that differentiate you in a positive and productive manner? Unless someone in leadership, truly, in his heart of hearts, believes his words, those words will have little meaningful impact. Leaders should know their strengths and weaknesses, and best utilize their strengths while addressing areas of weakness.

One will never become a great leader unless he is able to realistically view himself, and behave in a positive manner with the proper attitude. One can say they want to lead, yet most individuals never ascend to true leaders, predominantly because of the failure to objectively view oneself, and address the areas that need improvement.

Richard has owned businesses, been a COO, CEO, and Director of Development, as well as a consultant. He has professionally run events, consulted to over a thousand leaders, and conducted personal development seminars, for over 30 years. Rich has written three books and well over a thousand articles. His company, PLAN2LEAD, LLC has an informative website http://plan2lead.net and Plan2lead can also be followed on Facebook http://facebook.com/Plan2lead
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Value Counts More Than Price Alone!

Value Counts More Than Price Alone!

By Richard Brody

Whether it is about selling or marketing a product, service, oneself, or effectively and meaningfully leading an organization, there is invariably a choice that must be made between simply addressing the price (or costs/ expense areas), or rather providing better value that justifies any expense and makes others believe that whatever something costs is well worth the expense. This requires a mindset that understands and perceives these four prerequisites: 1. It's not about what you pay, but what you get/ receive for that cost; 2. That value means different things to different people, and so both true value as well as perceived value must be addressed; 3. That whatever the expense or cost, that it fits a need and motivates others; 4. That it shows that you care!

1. Nearly everything that is done has some sort of associated expenditure involved. Those that lack vision (I often refer to these types of individuals as myopic leaders) focus merely on the costs and act to slash costs, often without examining or understanding potential ramifications and/ or alternatives. On the other hand, the better approach is generally examining expenses with the focus on productivity and purpose, and addressing what the expenses bring forth that is meaningful or needed. In other words, what do you get for the monies expended and is this the best use of those funds?

2. There is both real value, as well as perceived value. Often, those in positions of leadership focus on the expenditures merely in terms of how the monies were spent and whether they paid the right amount. Perceived value is not simply based on whether the correct amount was paid, but rather whether stakeholders received valuable services, etc., as a result of these expenses. In most cases, members of organization are far more interested in how they perceive the value that they receive for their money, than merely the absolute costs.

3. Does the program, service, or any other expenditure fit the needs, and thus motivate others to get more involved, care more, and are positive about their membership? Is the cost addressing either a need or some sort of niche that distinguishes the organization in a significant manner, which makes it more attractive to either belong to, or support in some other meaningful way?

4. When others perceive membership as being valuable, and it is combined with a leader with the attitude, integrity and desire to serve others, it is indicative of caring. In order for someone to lead effectively, he must prioritize value, and show how much he cares. Every organization fares better when its leaders care.

While price may sell a product once, it never attracts loyal customers, clients or members! On the other hand, when there is a perception of value, the result is generally more far reaching and longer lasting!

Richard has owned businesses, been a COO, CEO, and Director of Development, as well as a consultant. He has professionally run events, consulted to over a thousand leaders, and conducted personal development seminars, for over 30 years. Rich has written three books and well over a thousand articles. His company, PLAN2LEAD, LLC has an informative website http://plan2lead.net and Plan2lead can also be followed on Facebook http://Facebook.com/Plan2lead
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