CAD Leadership - Part 9 - Traits of a CAD
Leader
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Trait Six: Leaders are learners
Five Steps toward gaining knowledge
Step 1: I don’t know that I am ignorant, so I don’t care
Step 2: I know that I am ignorant, but I don’t care
Step 3: I know that I am ignorant and I don't want to be
Step 4: I find out what I need to know and I learn it
Step 5: I put it into practice, and blissfully return to step #1 on
another topic
All kidding aside. Leaders are constantly to be
learning. They are seeking to improve their storehouse
of knowledge and turn that knowledge into wisdom. Wise
people make wise decisions and plan wisely for the future.
Learning keeps the fires of creativity burning brightly.
It stokes the boiler for future planning efforts. It
keeps you out front.
Learning is a lifelong process. The more you know, the
more you realize you do not know. Keep learning new
things. Keep investigating new technology. Keep
up with the Beta programs. Read the reviews of new
software. Talk to others at trade shows.
Trait Seven: Leaders are people oriented.
They are Servant-Leaders.
They are dedicated to serving those that follow them.
They are not out to lord it over the masses. They are
benevolent and kind. They seek the best for everyone,
even putting themselves last at times.
Leaders care for the people first. They don't use them
to stride ahead in their firm. They are looking out
for the best for the firm and the people at the firm.
They understand the old adage - give to others first – then they will give to you.
They take the
extra step of helping out, teaching a new trick, covering for
other shortcomings, sharing the blame. Giving
rewards and recognition when others achieve.
Leaders must initiate relationships.
It is imperative that a leader initiate relationships with
those that they lead. The leader should be the one
that introduces themselves to new people. The leader
needs to seek out those in the firm that are more silent and
gather input from them.
Leaders must be good at the
"Art of Listening". Yes it is tough to really listen.
Listen without thinking about your response. Listen
until the person is finished talking. Listen for
hidden clues to the real intentions of some statements.
Listen hard for the hidden facts and repeating comments.
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