I read an article last week regarding how the Redskins rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III earned the trust of his teammates, the organization and the fans (http://tinyurl.com/dytetev).
I am not a Redskins fan.
I am not a RG3 fan.
I am, however, a fan of genuine leaders.
RG3 was drafted in the first round. He won the Heisman Trophy in college. He was set to take over arguably the most important position on the football field as the quarterback. He did not show up, however, with an expectation that he would be anointed the leader.
He slowly, organically, and respectfully earned the trust and respect of his teammates. He built his leadership credibility one relationship, one conversation and one action at a time. His story points to some questions regarding leadership and influence.
- What makes a leader a genuine leader?
- Why do some individuals garner the respect and trust of others?
- What are the patterns of someone worth following?
In the 21st century, I see a clear pattern that leadership is not something that is automatically given to a person based on his/her position, title, set of degrees, initials before his/her name (Dr., Rev., etc). In some circles, a person may still be given an initial set of leadership capital based on titles but the number of those circles is decreasing every day.
I believe that the ability to lead and influence comes from another set of considerations.
Action. Consistency. Humility. Genuine Care. Results. Problem Solving. Vision.
What leaders do you respect?
Is it because they have a title or a set of degrees or a specific position?
Or is it because they have built up trust and respect through demonstrated results over time?
I know who I respect as a leader and why? Do you?
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