Leading by Example: How to Lead a Team Honestly and Authentically

Introduction
Leading by example is essential for building trust, motivating your team, and creating an environment where actions speak louder than words. As a leader, your behavior sets the standard for your team to follow.

Why Leading by Example is Important

Inspiration through Action:
A leader’s actions show the team what’s possible, motivating them to push toward success.
- Example: Mahatma Gandhi led India to independence by living the values of nonviolence he preached.
Building Trust:
Leading by example creates trust. If leaders “walk the talk,” team members are more likely to follow enthusiastically.
- Example: Jack Welch at General Electric encouraged a “boundaryless organization,” allowing anyone to contribute ideas, and he actively listened to all levels of the company.

Consequences of Not Leading by Example

Loss of Trust and Motivation:
When leaders don’t practice what they preach, trust erodes, and team morale drops.
- Example: Leaders who criticize certain behaviors but engage in them themselves (e.g., taking personal calls at work) can cause disappointment and resentment among staff.
Lack of Commitment:
If your team sees inconsistency between what you say and do, they may become less committed to the organization’s goals.

Making Sure You “Walk the Walk”

Integrity in Actions:
Leadership requires not only directing your team but also setting an example by doing the right things.
- Key Quote: “Managers do things right. Leaders do the right things.”
Create a Clear Path for Your Team:
By leading through action, you demonstrate what is possible, making it easier for others to follow.
- Example: Alexander the Great led his soldiers into battle rather than staying safe on the sidelines, inspiring loyalty and courage.

How to Lead by Example in Practice

Align Actions with Expectations:
Ensure you follow any rules or standards you set for your team.
- Example: If you implement a “no personal calls at work” policy, make sure you follow it too.
Self-Reflection and Improvement:
Continuously evaluate your own behavior and adjust if needed.
- Example: If you expect people not to interrupt, make sure you listen and don’t interrupt others.
Consistency with Office Policies:
If you encourage work-life balance by setting rules like leaving at 5:00 p.m., follow through on those rules yourself to avoid pressuring your team to stay late.

Key Points

Trust and Integrity: Good leadership requires strength of character and consistency between words and actions.
Motivation through Example: When leaders act in line with their expectations, team members are more likely to work hard and stay committed.
Historical Examples: Figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Alexander the Great demonstrated the power of leading by example, achieving great success as a result.

Apply This to Your Life

Be Willing to Do What You Ask Others to Do:
Lead with integrity by ensuring you would perform any task you assign to others.
Follow the Rules You Set:
If you establish office rules, adhere to them yourself to maintain credibility.
Examine Your Behavior:
Regularly reflect on your actions to ensure you’re setting a positive example for your team.