Whether it is a Little League team, a platoon of Marines, or a stock trading conglomerate, good management is necessary for succes. People say “management” because it sounds like savvy business lingo, but the real word is Leadership. Leadership is more than just bossing people around or “delegating” unfortunate jobs onto inferiors. It is taking the lead, making your team or group work effectively and accomplish goals and fulfill responsibilities.
Leaders should be looked up to. They have to set an example, and always be on their best behavior. If the new guy is slacking off or breaking rules, it’s one thing. If the leader is slacking off or breaking rules, moral and productivity will both plummet. Michael Scott from The Office is not the kind of leader to aspire to being. Be like Major Dick Winters instead.
A word on delegation. Leaders have to delegate. They don’t have enough hands or time to do everything themselves. However, it’s important that leaders (or insert managers) lead by example. Save the dirtiest job for yourself. That sales call no one wants to make? It’s yours. Digging through the trash for the customer’s lost retainer? Yours. Now, there are times when your subordinates will need experience in dirty jobs so they can learn it. Do it first, or do it with them, teach them. You’re in charge of taking care of these people, both by caring for them, teaching them, and getting them to do their best. Attitude reflects leadership, so work in a way that will leave your employees or followers healthy and happy.
Good leadership makes or breaks a company, army, or any other organization. Remember, leaders serve their people.
