Leadership: One-Size Does NOT Fit All

You know how there are shirts that say one-size-fits-all?  Well I don't believe them.  I don't think I've ever bought a piece of clothing that was one-size-fits-all.  There are few things in life that truly fall into this category in my opinion.  This includes leadership.  New leaders often ask me what their leadership style should be or how to develop a way of leading.  They've often seen all the books and articles that try to distill leadership down into one way of being that is Right (that's right--with a capital R).  What these authors often point to is a very stereotypical way of leading.  Usually having to do with being an Alpha or by using command and control.  The reality is that there are a vast variety of ways to successfully lead a company or organization.

Leadership isn't one-size-fits-all. That's right.  There isn't ONE right way to be a leader.  It really depends on a number of different things: Who you are--your personality traits and values. What talents and experiences you bring. What the company needs at this particular phase of business. These are just some of the factors that go into determining your leadership style.  The key is to have a style that is true to who you are and produces results for the company or organization you are leading.  So...

What's your leadership style?

How do you know when you're being effective...and when you're not?

Who is the most effective leader you've experienced and why?