Leaders’ actions speak far louder than anything we say

After discussing a plan of action with two of my associates, whom I have worked with for many years, I concluded our conversation by saying, “No rush.  I’m really not in a hurry regarding any of this.”  They both looked at me in complete disbelief; like I had just suggested we sit in a circle, hold hands, and meditate.  I protested, “I’m serious.  I’m trying to relax more and not be as ‘in a hurry’ as I have been in the past.” 

They clearly did not believe me.  Once you develop a reputation it is hard to change the perception.  As a leader, those you work with pay close attention to your management style, so it is perhaps twice as difficult for you to stake out new directions. 

Same thing applies for spontaneous, inappropriate leadership actions.  Lose your temper one time in a company meeting and it can take years to recapture the reputation you enjoyed as a patient and caring leader.  It is not fair, but it is reality.

I had a client and leadership mentor who impressed me with his patience and caring leadership style.  I was once in a room with him when one of his buyers confessed he had made an error in forecasting that would cost the company over three million dollars.  The president listened intently to the buyer’s confession.  He followed up calmly by making certain he was aware of his mistake and knew how important it was that he not repeat it.  He thanked him for his honesty in bringing the matter to his attention as he surely could have buried the mistake.  I was impressed with both of them.

We later left the room and went into his office and only then did I see how visibly upset he was with the situation.  We discussed his patience and leadership style.  The buyer was one of his best and almost never made a mistake and knew exactly what he had done wrong.  He knew the buyer always did his best for the company and was already extremely remorseful about his actions and the financial hurt it put on the company.  The president’s leadership was legendary within the company and admired by all.  Leaders’ actions under fire speak far louder than anything we say.