5 Misconceptions About Leading
From the outside looking in, being a leader can sometimes seem to be all about strategy, the big picture and driving the organisation forward. In my experience, there are often many misconceptions about leading. Here are my top 5:
- Misconception 1: It’s easy
Contrary to what people often believe, leading is a huge challenge and is certainly not easy.
- Misconception 2: You can rely on seniority
There may have been a time when people in leadership roles could rely on their status to get others to come on board. The truth is this does not work anymore.
- Misconception 3: Everyone will follow
Leaders need followers. People only follow you if they believe that you are worth following. Don’t assume everyone will be on board with what you want to achieve.
- Misconception 4: Leaders are born, not made.
There is an idea that there is something genetically different which happens at birth to result in people being natural leaders. This is the biggest myth around.
- Misconception 5: You need to be nasty
All of the best leaders I ever worked with had one thing in common. They were genuinely nice people and really took an interest in others.
What other misconceptions do you have about leading?
Duncan Brodie of Goals and Achievements helps accountants and health professionals to achieve success and realize their professional potential through being highly effective leaders and managers. For more information and to sign up for his free audio e-course click here
About the Author Duncan Brodie
Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.