Lead by Example

Leading by example creates a sense of trust between the leader and team members.

Leaders who lead by example earn their team members' trust and respect - (Dr Claude H. A. Simpson).

One of the top ways leaders can shape and influence their teams effectively is through leading by example. Leaders who demonstrate the behaviors they expect from their teams earn more trust and respect from their team members, who feel more influenced by their example. Leaders who demonstrate their principles through their actions establish standards for their teams by exhibiting the desired values and work ethics. Trusting the team is akin to a two-way street, and when leaders are the first to show trust, that trust will be returned to them. Being the first to show trust creates a positive ripple effect and cements a foundation upon which teams can draw to do their best work. Leading by example creates a sense of trust between the leader and their team. When team members are aware that their leader is modelling the very same expectation they are held to, the leader’s teams will be more likely to believe in the leader and the message they are trying to convey. When leaders model excellence, they create high standards for their teams. When they prove that they are committed to their goals and are relentless and driven to achieve exceptional outcomes, chances are that their teams will be more motivated to also meet high standards. Team members gain greater motivation and commitment when they see their leader working hard to achieve the best possible outcome. This helps them understand what is needed to complete a task.

Embracing better leadership highlights the truth in the saying, ‘Show me your friends, and I’ll show you your future.’ Leaders must exhibit the behaviors and attitudes they expect from their team members to influence organizational culture effectively. When leaders demonstrate positive attitudes while treating others with respect and care, they help foster the same behavior among their followers.

When a leader is open and authentic in their communication and has an ‘open door’ approach, this helps create a culture in which these attitudes spread. The same is true for empathy, kindness, integrity, honesty, graciousness, and a general desire to build each other up while overcoming challenges together. When leaders demonstrate they will own their decisions and take responsibility for problems when things go wrong, they are also modelling and building a culture in which everyone will do the same. At the same time, inspiring and equitable leaders who are always seeking ways to become more self-aware and better leaders are better able to create a culture wherein people are curious, intentional, and continue to seek feedback about what works and what doesn’t. In effect, leaders who are always learning and improving alongside their team, while taking responsibility for their mistakes, not only model the behaviors they want their team to adopt but are in turn better at recognizing and utilizing the natural strengths of their team when stepping into the role of coach and mentor.

Leaders who demonstrate extra effort and sweat equity establish their leadership by example. Leaders who successfully meet deadlines while maintaining focus and commitment to their goals will inspire their teams to follow suit. Team members rely on leaders to demonstrate appropriate behavior and responses in stressful and challenging high-pressure situations. Leaders who set daily examples earn their team members' trust and respect. Team members show greater loyalty and dedication to organizational goals when leaders consistently demonstrate fairness and commitment to hard work. This respect is reciprocal. When team members consistently see their leader respecting others, they too will reciprocate. By leading by example, leaders demonstrate that they can remain calm and composed during conflicts and challenges. Modeling resilience, emotional intelligence, and a problem-solving mindset show team members how to deal with adverse situations in a focused and productive manner. Leading by example is a great way for leaders to earn influence instead of demanding it. Teams are more likely to follow their leaders when they have earned their trust and respect through demonstrated actions instead of title or positional authority. This sense of earned influence allows leaders to rally the team without micromanaging or engaging in power or control tactics.
This enables leaders to bring the team together and to develop a feeling of ‘us’. If leaders collaborate with their team, attend meetings and are prepared to roll up their sleeves and get involved, they will foster a collegiate atmosphere. It strengthens teamwork and collective action; people feel more involved and valued. Sustainable leadership grows in consistency, and leading from the front means that the values a leader is attempting to embed into their daily behavior become embedded in the team’s day-to-day behavior. This leads to long-term success because the team coalesces around shared values, examples could be integrity, working hard and working together. This lays the foundations not only for short-term success but also for long-term sustainability as the team grows and succeeds. Leading by example is a leadership gold standard. Leaders who model and embody the behaviors, attitudes, and work ethic they want to drive in their teams increase trust and motivation, which helps build a more positive and accountable team culture. Leaders who embody and model the values they wish to promote in their teams may well increase their standing and improve the effectiveness of their teams, which increases opportunities and success for them and their organizations.