Learning How to Lead Up
By: Shelita Winfield
Let’s make no mistake…God is the final leader. The Bible, his blueprint, is
the best way to learn about being a servant-leader and how to treat others.
I am a firm believer that to lead you MUST be able to follow, serve and
listen to God and others.
I am an entrepreneur and an employee. Both place me in the role of a
leader. I’ve learned many lessons about leadership in these environments.
As an entrepreneur, I hear the saying, “People do business with those they
know, like and trust.” This is true. I try hard to live by this adage in my
business, work, and life. But, I wonder, how do I show potential clients or
partners leadership qualities so they can trust you?
Well, my response is to stand out without being braggadocios or conceited. You do it by engaging and offering support, or information of value.
In essence, you serve as the sphere of influence and let your words, and
actions speak to your character.
As an employee, I serve my supervisor and the organization by living its
mission. It's in my professional interactions, work products and while
coaching colleagues and other staff. I am able to bring the adage of know,
like and trust to the workplace through a variety of avenues.
40