Leading by example: how to be a person of influence and action

Leading by example is not a choice, it is a minute-by-minute reality. But that does not mean you simply accept that fact and get on with the job.

It is one of the great truths of leadership: the example you set as a person is an integral part of your leadership, and its effectiveness.We can all point to examples where even the simplest thing speaks loudly about the character of leadership. The ex-Chancellor doing her own grocery shopping is a recent one. As Ralph Waldo Emerson, the American Philosopher, put it, “What you do speaks so loudly, I cannot hear what you are saying.”

Self-awareness is key

Like all aspects of leadership, your example is a living thing that can be molded and improved. That process begins with self-awareness. Do you know what kind of example you are setting? Do others see you the way you see yourself?

Do you have blind spots when it comes to some of your behaviors?

As HBR puts it, “Fortunately, a simple question evokes greater self-awareness and actionable insights than the typical 360 degree review: ‘How do you lead by example?’ That means asking leaders to detail instances and anecdotes where their actions set standards for others. What do they actually do that influences and inspires?”

But once leaders have offered their examples of leading by example, the acid test remains. Do their colleagues and clients actually see those examples as leadership? Do the leaders’ direct reports feel inspired by the examples? Do they want to emulate that behavior by their leader? Does their example become “the right way” of getting the job done or getting the best out of people that others quote?

Living up to your words

Of course, saying how you lead by example, by quoting an example, quickly reveals any underlying hypocrisy or inconsistently.

It is no good speaking about a quality like ‘humility’ and ‘teamwork’ if the leader is never shy about regularly advertising their achievements over those of the team they lead. If you talk about treating everybody with respect but you are constantly yelling at people…People notice that type of behavior and it can be the crack into which a wedge of negativity can be driven.

Talking truth to power

So, who tells the senior leader that their words or actions are not chiming with the beliefs and values they espouse? It is an important issue, and it makes the case for a formal arrangement for peer-to-peer or, ideally, independent feedback and coaching to be an integral part of leadership development.

Being truly present

Making your example count to others means, quite simply, being present. If people cannot see, hear and judge you, your example will have no effect. Of course, remote or hybrid working makes this all the more difficult. Your Zoom presence is only a shadow of your in-person reality.

Many leaders don't spend much time interacting with their people.

As reported in Forbes, employees most commonly reported spending about one hour per week interacting with their leader. It’s not enough. According to research by LeadershipIQ, increasing that time has a powerful impact.

For example, employees who spend six hours per week interacting with their leader are 30% more engaged than people who only spend one hour per week interacting with their leader.

Furthermore, employees who spend six hours per week interacting with their leader are 16% more innovative than people who only spend one hour per week.  Even people who didn't personally like their boss were still more engaged when their interactions increased! You might not be in love with your boss, but they are your after access to growth opportunities, choice projects, career insights, pay increases, and so on.

One example might not fit all

There is an additional challenge to the notion of leading by example: multi-generational workforces.

A leadership example that appeals to a baby boomer might not resonate the same with Gen Y.

“For example, for those who demand authenticity, too much spin can seem empty and hollow. In contrast, leaders who can talk openly talking about failure and show vulnerability at work are a far better example” states Silvia Eggenweiler, partner at Odgers Berndtson Germany.

Nine simple steps

Whilst every leader has their own way of leading by example, there are some common behaviors that can provide the energy, purpose and values that can instill trust, commitment and make work, dare we say, more enjoyable.

1. Build a foundation of trust by following through on your promises.
2. Support your employees and colleagues in achieving their goals – with actions, not with words.
3. Be generous – think about the team as a whole and less about yourself.
4. The most effective leaders work alongside their team, not cossetted away in an office away from the action.
5. To lead by example, follow the rules you have set and, of course, the rules of the organization.
6. Trust your team to do their work and do it well.
7. Show your team that you do not think you have all the answers, and that you are open to learning and continuous self-education.
8. Listen to everyone - your employees, fellow leaders and your customers. Everyone has something of value to add to a conversation. No-one has the complete picture in this complex, ever-changing world.
9. Finally, always consider how your team could interpret what you say and do. Be mindful of your attitude and behaviors.

 “To be a true leader, you need to make it your business to draw out the best in others by being an exemplar yourself”, concludes Markus Trost, partner at Odgers Berndtson Germany.

If you want to know how to find leaders who set the best example, or want to develop your career, please get in touch. We’d be happy to help and advise you on the next, best steps forward.