by D. P. Noe

Created on: November 28, 2008

You cannot be an efficient leader unless others are willing to follow you. Just because you have a title of manager does not mean that people will follow you. Leaders need to instill trust and lead others in a direction that will meet the vision and mission of the organization they are working for.

If you are the type of leader who is solely out for yourself at the expense of others in an organization, you will never succeed as a manager. You need to give a clear picture of what your values are and why they are important for the employees and the organization. A efficient leader will gain the respect of the employees to motivate them to meet expectations and goals that you have identified.

It is important for a manger to let the employees know how important an issue is to them. You need to show courage to address the issues and be willing to put yourself on the line. Employees will watch how hard you fight to deal with issue snd how good you are in attracting others to your fight.

Leaders are placed in situations where the most appropriate decision may be risky and have some negative feedback. A efficient leader will have the courage to do the right thing. It is also vital when involved in critical decisions that you examine other people's thinking and rationale before you make the final decision. Get yourself prepared to deal with other people's reaction to your decision and assist them to deal with the impact of your final decision.

There are leaders who will try hard not to be aggressive and the end result is that they become passive. Assertiveness is a much better choice for a manager. If you are an assertive manager you recognize the value your views have and can express yourself in a respectful manner. The definition of assertive is not about getting everything you want or getting everyone to always agree with you. Assertiveness is self respect to yourself, believing in the value of your views and ideas, not be afraid to ask for what you want and stating clearing what you want. There is also an expectation that your views will be respected and given consideration.

If you are having problems with assertiveness, notice how assertive individuals will share thier views but not force them on others. Assertive individuals will look for a win-win situation that benfits both parties. They will consistently and always show respect for others, even when they disagree.

If all of a sudden you become assertive it will cause notice and surprise. People become familiar with your style and it can be unsettling when a manger changes. There are individuals who will not like the new change. During this awkward stage it is important to support the new you and do not be afraid to acknowledge it.

An efficient leader knows when to say no. No group of employees expects you to agree to everything. Learning to say no is an effective way to stay focused, show consistency, and your commitment to an idea and follow through with the issue. Do not procrastinate by being tentative, explain your reasoning and stick to it.

When you are in a leadership position you will be faced with conflicts and difficult situations and you need the courage and assertiveness to make the right decision. You need the courage to say yes when it is the right thing and no when it is not. Always keep in mind what is important to you and take action to get it done. By taking an action despite of the risk or lack of comfort you will demonstrate the characteristics of an efficient leader.

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