What is most important for me as a leader to focus on during these challenging times? (part 2)

Transparency is important in order to maintain a culture of trust, which presents the challenge of how much to reveal of difficult realties, while still instilling hope and confidence. Transparent leadership that builds credibility requires one to master the skills of emotional intelligence and to practice discernment.

Try the following strategies with your family, co-workers and community, and step into the kind of leadership that is called for, today:

1. Be trustworthy. Tell the truth. Deliver bad news well. Apologize when you make mistakes. Reward trust. Hold everyone accountable.

2. Be empowering. Make a commitment to others. Show genuine care and concern for everyone you are in contact with. Encourage teamwork and play to people’s strengths. Keep it positive.

3. Do not abuse power. Leadership is service. Give of your gifts and do not take advantage of others.