We each have intrinsic value. That’s a given. But what might happen if we took the time to consciously and proactively magnify the value we deliver as people and as leaders?
I’ve been fascinated by what it means to be “high value” for some time and some of you will know that I have developed a workshop for women that explores this very question. (Details below if of interest.)
Today I offer five ways you can start to tap into and consciously up-level the value you deliver as both a person and as a leader.
Influence
At its core, influence is your ability to impact how other people think and behave. That won’t happen unless people respect and trust you. Here are just some of the ways to build a currency of respect and trust:
- Know your stuff. Make constant learning (both formal and informal) a priority and encourage others to do likewise.
- Become a master communicator. Keep everyone informed and provide plenty of opportunity for input, discussion and debate.
- Work on your charisma. The key elements of charisma are personal power (not necessarily your title), presence and warmth.
- Build your networks. The best way I know how to do this is to be helpful.
Transparency
A lot of people talk about transparency, but I find its rarer than it should be. Transparency means being open and honest. It requires you to share your power because after all, knowledge is power. Not everyone is willing to do that.
Creativity
In workplaces where trial and error is encouraged, people feel emboldened to think outside the square and come up with new solutions to old problems. Leading by example, you can demonstrate that there is no such thing as failure – only opportunities to learn. But that will require that you get vulnerable yourself.
Accountability
In the end, I have learned that nobody is coming to save me. So I need to remain 100% accountable to myself for my thoughts, my actions and my outcomes, all of which are down to me. The leader who is accountable to herself finds it easy to be accountable to others. And that’s so valuable when it comes to building cultures in which people feel supported, heard and trusted.
Integrity
Do what you say you will do. It’s that simple.
PS Join me for my High Value Woman Masterclass in Warrnambool, Victoria, on August 23. Numbers are strictly limited for this small group experience. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/929548914827?aff=oddtdtcreator
