Halloween has prompted me to think about the masks that people wear. We all masquerade from time to time: we want to appear happy when we're miserable; interested when we're bored; enthusiastic when we're apathetic.

 

Recently I've become acquainted with a person - let's call him Sam - who has created a strategic alliance with a group of independent practitioners. The idea has potential: strategic alliances make sense when the business case works and all who are involved profit.

 

In this case, however, the leadership is missing. Well-intentioned as he is, Sam is only occasionally engaged in this endeavor, and as a result, the practitioners are clueless about everything from the business model to what is expected of them. He treats the business as a hobby, hence the "avocational leader".

 

In thinking about Sam, I realize that many people do this. Leadership is an afterthought. Instead of being true leaders, they only sporadically don leadership masks.

 

Being a leader takes work. I'm not saying it has to be hard, but you need to focus on it. You can't just do it when your schedule eases up or you have a few minutes to call the office from the airport.

 

Weak or inadequate leadership trickles down to your people. They aren't going to give you tips to become better at it; instead, they're going to do their own thing and disregard you as a leader.

 

Of course, I'm not writing about you....but just in case....take a look in the mirror and make sure that you're not just wearing a mask and only occasionally acting the part.

 

Have a great week! 

 

 

Copyright 2009 Lisa M. Aldisert

 

 

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Our goal is to provide you with timely tips so that you can more effectively run your business. We know you have a ton of mail in your inbox, so we're committed to brevity and practicality.

 

 

Lead consciously, not haphazardly. Your people will certainly know if you're not paying attention.

 

 

In the perpetual rush of over-scheduled days, remember to stay connected to people you care about. 

 

 

The Wall Street Journal reports that remote monitoring of critical care patients is improving their mortality rates. Read about "eICUs" to learn more. 

 

 

 

 

Julia E. Rosenbaum