Leading by Example

Leading by Example

Keelly Harrington

Rasmussen College

Abstract

In this paper I will be reviewing the leadership style; leading by example. I will define what it is and also give an example of an organization who leads by example and things they may be able to change to be better than they already are.

Review of my Chosen Leadership Style

There are hundreds of meanings and definitions that go along with the word leader and anyone one of them is no better than the other. Not anyone can become a successful leader; a good leader possesses important characteristic traits that separate him from the followers. Such traits are what define a leader, and are what make them such an influence to others (Vercillo, n.d.). One trait that makes a leader stand out from the crowd is his ability to lead by example. It is important to not only tell those you lead what to do, but also to be able to show them and interact with them using the same behaviors (Yukl, 2006, p.277). It is a proven fact the character and example of leaders directly affects their subordinates, and their actions. "Leaders set an example whether they know it or not." (U.S., 2010).

This characteristic trait of leading by example is a vital part of being a successful leader. Leading by example is the ability to lead through explanation as well as being able to show others what you want to be done. In order to do this one must have a vast knowledge of the business or organization you are working with (DeSimone &Werner, 2006). With a good head on their shoulders, a leader will step up to what he is up against and be willing and able to stand up to it and not be caught off guard. It is also important for a leader to show strength and determination in order for his followers to be confident that their leader is cut out for the position.

Being able to lead by example shows that the leader knows what he is up against and proves that he can handle the task at hand. Because a person who leads by example gains the trust of his followers and that is the most important thing to have. A person who is well liked and admired can also have a considerable influence over others by setting an example of proper and desirable behavior for them to intimidate (Yukl, 2006, p. 155). When people can see that their leader isn't just telling them what to do just for the sake of getting it done, but that they will be there with them until the job is done right, this also helps their influence. They also see that the leader is also part of the group when you lead by example and show your followers support (DeSimone & Werner, 2006).

Leaders are constantly evaluated and critiqued by their subordinates. Even the most accepting and supportive follower will make take note on the faults of their leader. Those followers, when receiving orders from a bad example leader, may follow orders and do so without question, but as the follower observes the wrong doings in their leader's character, the respect for the leader and overall moral of the follower will eventually decrease(U.S., 2010).Subordinates want and expect competency, integrity and loyalty from their leaders. They want to believe that the leader not only has actually experienced what they are going through, but also is willing to walk in their shoes. As a leader, others look to the leader for direction, not only in terms of business needs but also related to behavior, ethics, and standards (DeSimone & Werner, 2006). A leader must set the example in every way. A good leader needs to make sure they are setting a good example before they expect anyone to follow them.

From the point of view of a person working under the wing of another individual it is important to know that this person is able to lead you and your team by example. This is often a reassuring thought because one always knows that their leader is always right there for them, and that they will never find selves alone(U.S., 2010).This is also important because it gives the people a confidence that their leader knows what to do in this situation and then they are better able to complete their own missions, which is important to the team as a whole(Jean-Paul, 2011).The people know that their leader isn't just telling them what to do just for the sake of getting the job done quickly, but that they will be there with them until the job is done right. "This type of leadership builds morale within a team as much as it creates a unity between follower, and also unity with their leader. It makes the person in the leadership position one with whom you are able to talk to, and be friends with, not be intimidated of. That fact alone is enough to make a well respected leader out of an individual." M. Murphy

I feel that one should always lead by example because you want to set yourself to such high standards as a leader that people reach to meet you at the top. I think that leading by example is the best way to inspire others as well. You can try different methods of leading but in the end being a positive role model is going to be your best tool.

Leadership Style that Exemplified this Situation

"Leaders can communicate values and expectations by their own actions, especially actions showing loyalty, self-sacrifice, and service beyond the call of duty (Yukl, 2006, p.292) "and the organization that I am about to speak of does just that.

Wookiefoot is a local high intensity filled, psychedelic, jam band from Minneapolis Minnesota. They have been playing and touring together for over 13 years and when they are not on a stage, street, field, or mountain at one of their many festivals they are working on one of their many charities. They began building these charities four years ago and have already risen over $137,000 dollars (Wookiefoot). They raise the money through the festival that they throw, Project Earth and Shangri-La (formerly Harvest Fest), at Harmony Park located in Geneva of their home state. They use money from the Project Earth directly towards countries in need that don't have a lot of awareness out there. They say that they are trying to help get it out, to let people know that something can be done (M. Murphy, 2012).

They have been to Nepal to build schools, as well as Cambodia to help amputee orphans and Hawaii to spread their love of music with the less fortunate children (Wookiefoot). Along with those