Key Traction-Point:
Everything communicates. Walk the talk. Actions speak louder than words.
Through the behaviors they demonstrate (or don’t), actions they take (or don’t), and choices they make (or don’t), leaders send constant and powerful messages to those around them. What they do (or don’t do) telegraphs their values, priorities, and more. And followers are highly attuned to these messages.
Public actions, traditions, rituals and even stories communicate volumes for leaders who use them well. But it’s easy to abuse this leadership strategy. People quickly see through the clever stunts, artificial contrivances and photo-ops of an inauthentic leader trying to manipulate a situation.
Becoming a genuine, skillful, symbolic leader involves more than doing things “for show.” It involves…[continue reading: Symbolic Leadership.]