Anyone in a leadership role will tell you, it is difficult at times to “walk the walk.” “If you make personal telephone calls during work time, or speak negatively about your CEO, can you expect people on your team not to do this too? Probably not!”
There is pressure to measure up to being a leader. So, here are 2 reasons why you should NOT walk the walk:
ROLE MODEL
1. Do not walk the walk if you do not want to be a role model. As a leader, you need to be just that- a role model for your team. This means that if they need to stay late, you should also stay late to help them. Or, if your organization has a rule that no one eats at their desk, then set the example and head to the break room every day for lunch. The same goes for your attitude – if you’re negative some of the time, you can’t expect your people not to be negative.
ALDEN’S DAD
Here is a true story about a role model, written by a teen who goes by “Alden” in High Point, NC.: My dad inspired me to write this. He has taken such a big role in my life. Whatever I needed even if it was on the other side of the world my dad would to get it. I love him with all my heart. He always makes sure I do my est in whatever I do. Even though it might be hard or tiring, my dad makes me to it. I know it’s the best for me. My dad is a PERFECT role model because he is everything a role model should be, loving funny, serious, nice to be around, and smart.
INTEGRITY
2. Do not walk the walk if you do not want to be a person of integrity. The definition of integrity is “the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness.” As a leader, integrity is of great value. Many companies look for that in their employees, including those in leadership positions. Whether or not you think integrity is becoming harder to find in our society, it is expected in many areas like our churches, businesses, non-profits, and in relationships.
A LAWYER
So, what about integrity? Well, an investment counselor went out on her own. She was shrewd and diligent, so business kept coming in. Pretty soon she realized she needed an in-house counsel, and so she began interviewing young lawyers. “As I’m sure you can understand,” she started off with one of the first applicants, “in a business like this, our personal integrity must be beyond question.” She leaned forward and continued, “Mr. Peterson, are you an honest lawyer?””Honest?” replied the job prospect. “Let me tell you something about honest. Why, I’m so honest that my father lent me fifteen thousand dollars for my education and I paid back every penny the minute I tried my very first case.””Impressive. And what sort of case was that?”The lawyer squirmed in his seat and admitted, “He sued me for the money.”
So remember, your team, your friends, and others are watching you all the time. If you want to shape their behavior, start with your own. They’ll follow suit.
“Words are empty letters without the actions. Beware of people who talk the talk, but do not walk the walk.” Unknown.
I would be interested in your thoughts. Feel free to leave comments about this post.