Showing backbone is cooperative – clarity & determination in leadership are very different from dominance

Many leaders find it difficult in their role to make demands or tell others what to do. Own beliefs and assumptions make us feel uncomfortable when it comes to defining tasks, delegating, or giving feedback. A modern understanding of leadership can provide some relief: I am not there to set demands, but to encourage people to make decisions while pursuing a joint goal. You can show backbone and literally stand upright and firm. Clarity and determination are not only showing confidence, but are also fair and cooperative. How does that work? In a conversation, it needs just 6 steps:

• Tell the need and facts
• Be prepared for resistance
• Listen to answers
• Show understanding
• Request a decision
• Then tell again the need and facts

This takes a little training and practice. Appreciative, mindful, non-judgmental behavior, asking many questions, waiting for answers, and learning leadership skills to encourage, empower, and enable people. Reflect regularly. And always be the leader you would like to have.

For modern leadership, Stephen Covey's 2002 book supports: Trust & Inspire - The Future of Leadership (How truly great leaders unleash greatness in others). Simon & Schuster.