A Plea For Character Development

They say that many leaders and influencers are born with the innate ability to lead. I believe that although that can be somewhat true, it is also crucial to understand that the very best of the best are men and women that have dedicated their lives to intentional development of their skills, competencies and commitment to an exceptional appointment.

Employees love and respect leaders that are great at inspiring, empowering and are deliberately cheering for them as well as creating avenues for their next challenge and career advancement.

Likewise, employees do not like leaders and supervisors whose behavior goes back to the industrial revolution where managers looked over people’s shoulders, told them what to do (not at all to the level of their capacity), and, underestimated their creativity and intelligence. Moreover, these kind of managers and leaders resist involving employees in finding solutions and having them become decision-makers.

Let’s be clear, and here I have to quote what Horst Schulze, founder of Capella Hotels has to say, “managers are to manage processes and products, not people. You have to lead people.” I love it. I agree with it.

Here is where I see the problem. It comes down to a foundational imperative that builds us, and, those around us: Character Development, the lack of it, that is. This is evident in both the leader whose primary task is to model trust, integrity, transparency, humility and concern for the benefit and profitability of all concerned, but doesn’t. And, the employee who is so fixated on the next promotion or opportunity to show themselves off that they undermine, undercut, overstep team effort and collaboration. It becomes all about themselves.

Character Development is difficult to talk about because it’s one of those things that’s so very tricky to assess, measure, gauge, quantify. But you can feel it. Your senses distinguish it. You know, when you’re in its presence.

A person of character possesses certain patterns of thought, emotions, actions, behaviors and wisdom that move us. They stir our very souls. This quality of being inspires us to become better. And, it is exactly what corporations, companies, small businesses and this world at large is hungry for.

Behind, the person who chooses to become and live to this standard of existence, there is a strong allegiance to justice. An unfaltering dedication to collaboration and building trust. A continual practice of courage. A faithful and firm pledge to surround themselves by people that will hold them accountable. And, an unwavering responsibility to become better people.

It is with this in mind, and my personal belief that at the foundation of great leadership, of exemplary companies, of thriving employees, and trusted loyal clients lies a rare and exquisite treasure, that I dedicate myself to coaching and teaching men and woman towards this unparalleled virtue: Character Development.