I was watching a group of kids on the playground the other day and couldn’t help but try to identify which ones were the leaders. Not the bossy one who is always loud and boisterous and demanding all the attention. But, the quieter one who can go from the swings to the slide and naturally has a following of friends behind them. What makes others want to follow?
Every year, our team at InteleCONNECT attends Leadercast. For the past two years we have been the Title Sponsor of this fantastic event put on by the Sartell Chamber. This year’s theme was Leading Healthy Teams and we had some amazing speakers throughout the day. How could you not be inspired by the speakers, but also by the room full of leaders from our own community?
I wanted to share a few takeaways with you on some words that inspired me.
- Andy Stanley says that as leaders we need to clearly define “the what” and “the why.” The what will provide the direction and the information for our team, but the why brings the inspiration and emotion to the task.
- Caroline Leaf encouraged us to control our minds by how we think, feel & choose to react. Although they are connected, the mind and brain are two completely separate things.
- Ginger Hardage from Southwest Airlines talked about their amazing culture and that they hire people who don’t take themselves to seriously; they have to be able to laugh, not just with others but at themselves.
- Carla Harris talks about being an intentional leader and focusing on our own authenticity. If we are confident and competent in our own skin, people will develop trust.
- Perhaps my favorite speaker was Craig Springer advising us to drop the BUT. If you are going to apologize to someone, do it sincerely. You can not be sincere if you end the apology with a BUT… If you owe someone an apology, just do it and don’t add the excuse that follows the BUT.
We recently were chosen by the St. Cloud Area Chamber as a Woman in Business Champion. A recognition for the leadership and culture we have at InteleCONNECT. Our core values are clearly defined as our faith and family at the forefront. Followed by showing respect to others and in turn being respected, giving generously of our time, talents and treasurers, and sharing our success. I can honestly say that I am so proud of this team of leaders that I get to work alongside every day. As amazing as they all are, we can all take time out to learn, listen and grow from other strong leaders.
We would love to have you join us at our table next May for Leadercast. In the meantime, get outside, enjoy the summer days before they’re gone, have fun, and see who follows your lead.
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