The theme for my term as DMIA president is "Be the Best." All of us go through stages of self-assessment, and many of us learn to recognize our strengths and weaknesses as we go through life. If we approach our lives in a positive manner, we find ways to improve ourselves and strengthen our weaknesses by seeking the tools and techniques that ultimately expand our knowledge and make us a little wiser.
This month, I would like to address the principles of good leadership. A few months ago in an interview with Darin Painter, managing editor of Print Solutions, I was asked to define leadership. While my response was adequate, I realized the magnitude of character and depth of responsibility a true leader encompasses after I read Rudolph W. Giuliani's book, Leadership. I highly recommend the book to people who want to learn the qualities of a good leader. Please indulge me while I share with you some principles I learned from the book.
First, contrary to popular belief and myth, leaders aren't just born. Leadership can be taught, learned and developed. If we understand our own strengths and weaknesses, we will surround ourselves with strong individuals who serve to balance our weaknesses. These high achievers will not merely be "yes men," but will contribute as a team to create new solutions with integrated thinking.
Second, a leader must organize around a purpose. As we define our goals, it's important to be open, honest and forthright, because it builds faith, trust and confidence in those around us. We must set a direction, communicate it and then have the courage to stay with our convictions. We should be clear about our expectations because it gives others hope. The more we explain things, the more people will understand what we're doing and why we're doing it. If we communicate with honesty, we will have no problem realizing that it's sometimes necessary to ask for others' opinions. When we finally do arrive at a decision, it's important that we keep our word, and equally important that we don't make any promises unless we're certain that we can keep them. As Giuliani's book says, "True leadership requires choosing a position that allows us to sleep at night."
Third, let's recognize there is no substitute for seasoned experience, but we should continue to take the time to study, read and learn independently. Solutions can be found in books, and it helps in developing our own sense of expertise by broadening our knowledge and providing a sense of reference. It also helps us determine whether we can trust someone else's advice.
Finally, it's important to remain calm when others around us are uneasy or troubled. If we're unruffled, we have a distinct advantage in controlling the situation and being helpful to others. Always stand up to people who don't think they have to play by the rules.
Becoming a leader involves risks, but if we follow our instincts, develop strong beliefs, and articulate and act on them with unwavering determination, we'll earn the respect of those around us. If you have an opportunity, pick up a copy of Giuliani's book. It's a revealing summary on how to live right by acting through courage, trust, faith and hope.
Jeff Long
is director of manufacturer Graphic Dimensions Inc.,
Newport, Ky., and president of DMIA.
