How To B.U.I.L.D. Others Up

Leadership revolves around the concept of being builders, specifically builders of people. Without the involvement of people, one cannot truly claim the title of a leader. The essence of leadership lies in having individuals who willingly choose to follow your guidance and direction. It’s like the old saying, “He that thinketh he leadeth and hath no one following him is only taking a walk.”

I think it should be vital for individuals holding leadership positions to include “people builders” on their list of responsibilities in their job descriptions. By prioritizing their team members’ growth, development, and well-being, leaders create a supportive work environment that fosters collaboration, drives employee engagement, and enhances overall performance.

Here are some quick thoughts on what ingredients it takes to B.U.I.L.D people up. Think about these during every conversation and opportunity to invest in the people around you.

B.U.I.L.D.

B – Belief

You should have belief in the potential and capabilities of your team members. You should inspire confidence and show faith in their abilities. When employees feel their leader has faith in their abilities, they are more likely to step up, take on more, and make decisions more confidently. This empowerment not only boosts morale but also cultivates a sense of ownership and commitment to the team’s success.

U – Understanding

You should demonstrate understanding and empathy towards your team members, striving to embrace their needs, challenges, and aspirations. As Stephen Covey taught us, “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.” Embodying this principle creates a culture of care and open communication. By acknowledging and addressing the challenges and aspirations of your team members, you can build stronger relationships and create an environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported.

I – Inspiration

You should be a source of inspiration, motivation, and encouragement to your team members so they can achieve their best. Inspire through your words, actions, and positive attitude. A truly inspiring leader sets an example by embodying the values and principles they expect from their team. Help them understand how their contributions fit into the bigger picture and how their efforts contribute to the organization’s overall success.

L – Listening

Active listening is crucial for building others up. The more you listen to another person, the more they feel valued by you. President Theodore Roosevelt is credited with saying, “No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” When others believe they have a voice, they feel they have a place. I often say, “A leader that never listens is a leader that will never be listened to.” It’s been said that God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason: to listen twice as much as we talk.

D – Development

A leader’s role is to foster the development of their team members. Help your team members grow and develop by providing them with the necessary resources, training, and opportunities for advancement. Offer regular feedback, coaching, and mentoring to help them understand their progress and areas of improvement. Be available to answer questions and provide guidance whenever needed, creating an environment of trust and support.

Every time you interact with someone, incorporate these ingredients into the conversation. Be intentional about adding value to those around you at all times. The more you build others up, the more they will build up your organization.