When you think about leadership, what attributes make the best leaders? Think of a leader you admire. How do they behave? And how do they not behave?
The current thinking around leadership demands that great leaders are not only able to craft a vision and guide their people to execute this vision but are expected to embody a spectrum of attributes – commanding, pioneering, inspiring, supportive, resolute, deliberate, humble, and inclusive. In addition to this, they must seamlessly transition between roles, catering to the evolving needs of their teams. So, we require our leaders to be everything to everyone, all the time!
One thing for sure is that being a leader is not easy, and being a great leader, especially during difficult times, can be challenging, lonely and feel impossible at times.
Emotional Intelligence is Fundamental
If you search ‘leadership books’ on Amazon you will be offered over 50,000 titles about great leadership, however what most of these books have in common is that, in order to navigate complex roles and interactions, leaders need to be emotionally intelligent (EQ) as Goleman (often referred to as the godfather of emotional intelligence) found in his research, EQ is:
“The ability to identify, assess and control one’s own emotions, the emotion of others and that of groups.”
Leaders need have a heightened awareness of their own thoughts, emotions, and behaviours (the good and the bad), in order to adapt and behave in the most effective and appropriate way. They must do this at all times, whilst remaining authentic to their own values. Balancing the “what” of leadership – knowledge, competency, process, and expertise – with the “how” – interpersonal connection and emotional resonance – is the hallmark of a great leader. As I said – leadership is no mean feat!
How Can Organisations Develop Leadership using Everything DiSC Work of Leaders?
Everything DiSC make leadership development more accessible, with one simple definition for leadership and one powerful tool – a tool to develop individual leaders or an entire leadership population of a large global organisation.
Leadership Development made simple (but not simplistic!) with Everything DiSC
Following their extensive research, Wiley chose to define ‘leadership’ as ‘the one-to-many relationship that leaders have with their people (in oppose to their definition of ‘management: the one-to-one relationships that managers have with their reports). Wiley found that great leaders are able to craft a vision, align their people to the vision and execute the vision. To simplify, great leaders lead a team of people from A to B in the best way possible.
The Work of Leaders Behavioural Assessment & Profile
The purpose of The Work of Leaders profile and programme is to develop well-rounded and adaptable leaders who are best able to serve their teams and organisations. Through a 20-minute online assessment, leaders receive a comprehensive report that details their DiSC style and preferred leadership style – providing them with personal insight about their natural priorities, strengths, motivations, limitations, stressors and even fears. Using the VAE model (Vision, Alignment, Execution) as a framework, the profile helps the leaders embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth, uncovering opportunities for refinement and adaptation. It highlights where they can become more effective in each area of the VAE model, and how much energy and effort it will take them to flex from their comfort zone into other less natural leadership styles.
My Work of Leaders profile provided me with a deeper level self-awareness and emotional intelligence. As an example, my DiSC style is an ‘iD’ which means my leadership style is naturally pioneering, energising, and commanding. I love fast action, coming up with ideas, and I get energy from encouraging, inspiring and motivating others. However, although these are positive traits, through DISC, I have learnt that not everyone will appreciate these behaviours, and I need to tone them up or down – especially for people of the opposite style or perhaps when people feel under pressure. My energy, enthusiasm and ideas can be irritating, distracting, and disengaging for some people or at certain times.
This insight has helped me adapt and develop as a leader and continues to be work in progress as it always will be!
By Heidi Blakeway – Director, The Fruitful Group
Unlock the keys to effective leadership with Everything DiSC! Contact us today to:
- Elevate your professional credentials by adding the Everything DiSC profile to your toolkit. Become a certified facilitator, or coach.
- Discover your leadership potential by taking the Work of Leaders (WOL) DiSC assessment. Develop your unique leadership style and unleash your full capabilities.
- Propel your organisation forward with our tailored leadership development programmes. From designing custom programs to offering personalised coaching, we’ll help you cultivate a culture of exceptional leadership.
The Fruitful Toolbox are Authorised Partners of Everything DiSC and The Five Behaviours. To learn more about DiSC, find out how to contact us here.
