Measuring Leadership

Most of the executives and managers in today’s organizations are focused like a laser beam on results. As the economy has spiraled out of control many have responded with sweeping cost-cutting measures to protect profits. Workers have been furloughed or fired. Wages and benefits have been reduced or frozen at current levels. Investments in equipment and training have been eliminated or postponed indefinitely.

There is a price to be paid when results are achieved in this way. Customer service may be compromised as fewer employees must cope with increasing demands. Morale could suffer as remaining staff deal with anxiety and uncertainty about their job security. Productivity might also decline as workloads increase and tired equipment breaks down more frequently.

When we measure leadership is the bottom line truly our best benchmark of success? Does a results-focused mentality ultimately make leaders effective? The need to win or succeed at any price is woven into the fabric of our society. This encourages and perhaps emboldens leaders to push their agendas in spite of clear evidence that not everyone agrees. If leadership is only about majority rule, personal ego, and achieving power no institution will thrive under these conditions.

What’s needed is a new way to measure leadership, one that focuses on authentic behavior, truth telling, and a strong desire to serve others. Imagine leaders who are unafraid to admit mistakes, listen to all points of view, and invite collaboration instead of fueling competition? How would the current economic challenges be addressed if these measures were applied to business, community, and political leaders?

Leadership is not just about impressive resumes and impeccable credentials; it is also about vulnerability and love. Winning your position or achieving a sought after goal won’t guarantee success or accolades from your followers. Sometimes it is better to hold the team together through the difficult times, to unite instead of divide. If your customers and colleagues don’t trust you, even when you have accomplished your desired result, how is that helpful? Perhaps we have just uncovered the true measure of leadership.