When we speak of leadership, the Commanding Leader is often the first that comes to mind. Decisive and direct they take charge of the situation and show a rare level of confidence. Most prominently we have seen it in our history through times of crisis and our Commanding Leaders in military, politics or business have stepped up with their dominant presence, tough mindedness and a drive to move forward swiftly with diligence.
Through passion they have the power to inspire others and through anger they intimidate. When working with other leaders or followers that display more tender emotions, their disgust for soft emotions often makes them feel their being manipulated into expressing weakness and vulnerability.
On a practical level this aversion to tenderness has some consequences that the modern day leader must learn to recognise and adapt to: Below we explore three essential tips for the commanding leader.
1. Open up to others ideas
There are many commanding leaders out there who simply aren’t very open to other people’s ideas, when Commanding leaders can recognise that other people have great ideas, people tend to feel more comfortable with the leader even if their ideas are not implemented.
How does one become more open?
Pause monetarily to actually evaluate people’s ideas. Rejecting ideas outright without giving them consideration shows a lack of respect. The pause can be ever so brief – just make sure that you consider the idea.
Acknowledge the idea, even if your initial reaction is that you can’t stand it! Challenge yourself to build on their idea rather than simply dismissing it.
Attribute the ideas and contribution that others make. Make sure you remember the person who came up with the idea that changes the project direction for the better.
2. Monitor your emotional output
Once you are in a position of power followers will pay more attention to your body language than ever before. Commanding leaders often vastly underestimate the impact their intensity has on other people. While it may be harmless fun in your own mind, others may perceive you are indifferent or even hostile which can erode the loyalty and trust that you hold.
How does one monitor their emotional output?
Make a conscious effort to connect with people on a personal level. Get to know what motivates them, what stresses them and what shapes their working priorities
Put yourself in the shoes of others. Hear your words from their perspective and anticipate how they will interpret what you are going to say
Channel your frustration you may feel towards others into constructive criticism rather than being so blunt – Remember your words and emotions carry a lot of weight/
3. Listen and be patient in Dialogue and Discussion
Many Leaders think they are great listeners, but listening is a lot easier said than done. Commanding Leaders need to reach out to their more social nature and be patient, supportive and take time to listen. But Why? First and foremost one of the main reasons is because they may actually know some things that you don’t, secondly it make people feel more like they are part of the team and in today’s fast past environment no one person can do it alone.
How does one facilitate more engaging discussion?
Invite diverse group to the table and mix things up. Place value in the cross collaboration which could generate better ideas than any one person
Relax you presence, Facilitate the discussion don’t lead it. Take a step back if you have to and simply observe the conversation rather than being an active member
Wait longer to take it all in before speaking. When there is a lull in the conversation let it ride for a while. Be reserved and give people the time and space to contribute
Commanding Leaders can create a fun and engaging workplace where employees feel valued and appreciated. It all starts with employee engagement and learning to acknowledge, accept and appreciate the behavioural differences of others.
People want to work where they learn about themselves and each other – a place where they can feel connected and engaged. For more information on improving your leadership dimensions please visit our website or further details.