The best and not-so-best leaders

Let's talk about leaders! I have had great leaders and not-so-great leaders in my career. All have taught me something about leading and helped to shaped my leadership style. And I'm sure you have, too.

The BEST:

One of my best leaders made it clear to me that my development as a leader was important to her. She told me that directly and also showed me indirectly, sort of behind the scenes. When I was a first time supervisor having to manage a low performer (who had decades of tenure with the company), she provide wise counseling and also connected me to another HR Director for support. They both heard my concerns and then introduced me to the term "manage out" and walked me through what that looks like - how to hold someone accountable while keeping their dignity intact. Another time, I was headed to our corporate office for training and she called ahead and facilitated meet and greets with key leaders. They all said my leader had reached out to them and wanted to make sure I was taken care of. It meant so much to know she working behind the scenes for me.

The NOT-SO-BEST:

Conversely, a poor leader helped me see how NOT to lead. Although I supported the largest organization in our company as a HR business partner, she spent little time with me and gave me virtually no support. It was clear she wasn't interested in my growth or development - she said so in so many words and also showed it indirectly. Thankfully, I supported an amazing business leader who filled that gap and gave me constructive feedback and helped with my development. That experience was difficult because up until that point, I always had good working relationships with my leaders. But that experience taught me how to ensure I gave my best to each of my staff and to always ensure they knew where they stood with me - whether they were meeting my expectations or not. And, if not, what they needed to do to get there.

Your Turn:

What about you? What did you learn from your best and not-so-great leaders? How has that shaped your leadership style today?