One of the greatest myths a leader is tempted to believe is this:
A Leader Knows All The Answers.
For some reason we have come to think that a leader is the one who always knows what needs to be done. They are superstars, that are masters at everything. This is a draining and unrealistic expectation. This myth causes leaders to feel less than they are. Why? Because it is nearly impossible to know everything. In fact, the greatest leaders do not know as much as we think they do. They are not masters at everything, however, they are masters in the art of teamwork. When most people either try to “fake it till’ they make it” or “throw in the towel,” great leaders simply surround themselves with people who are in the know. They have an ability to attract people who compensate for their weaknesses. This ability causes them to get more done, not because of they do it all, but because they know how to motivate others to get things done.
So how do you become a master in the art of teamwork?
1. Attract Great Teammates
You attract great teammates by being a great team player. A “ball-hog” never attracts others players, they repel them. Trying to be the MVP all the time doesn’t make for a team player. You have to be what you want to see. This means model the behavior you desire to see in others. Be an example of what teamwork looks like.
2. Develop Great Teammates
Great teammates do not just appear out of nowhere. They have to be developed with training and opportunities. You may attract great people, but the next step is to develop their potential. You develop their potential by spending time with them. You cannot expect a teammate to grasp the vision and culture of your organization without helping them adapt to it…this takes time and effort.
3. Utilize Great Teammates
You have to let people loose to operate in their strengths. Never giving people authority and opportunities will stifle their growth. Great leaders are great delegates, meaning they let go as they let others go. They are not afraid of letting others shine brighter than themselves. Utilize your teammates by releasing them to do what they do best, don’t hold them back out of fear. They them spread their wings and take off.
