Eight Rules of Leadership

So a few friends and I are weekly getting together to work through Jack Welch's book Winning. In his chapter titled "It's Not About You," he outlines Eight Rules of Leadership. Personally, as I've recently reflected on these in context of my own leadership, I've been challenged significantly.

When you attain a leadership position, everything changes. Leadership requires distinct behaviors and attitudes.

Prior to your leadership position,
your success is all about growing yourself.
Now that you’re a leader,
success is all about growing others.

There are Eight Rules of Leadership:



1. Leaders relentlessly upgrade their team by evaluating (making sure the right people are in the right jobs and moving out those that aren’t), coaching (helping people improve themselves), and building self-confidence (pouring out encouragement and recognition to energize your team).


2. Leaders make sure people not only see the vision but also live and breathe it.

You must avoid jargon and keep the vision simple and clear. It is also best that you talk to everyone, not just your subordinates or officemates.

3. Leaders get into everyone’s skin, exuding positive energy and optimism. 

 Attitudes filter down into an organization. Leaders’ attitudes are catching.

4. Leaders establish trust with candor, transparency and credit. 

Be honest with everyone in the company. Don’t let your position go to your head.

5. Leaders have the courage to make unpopular decisions and gut calls.

You’re not there to make everyone happy—you’re there to lead.

6. Leaders probe and push with a curiosity that borders on skepticism, making sure questions are answered with action.

Keep asking questions, and make sure you raise issues that get action.

7. Leaders inspire risk taking and learning by setting examples. 

If you want your people to experiment and expand their minds, go first and let them know you’re doing it.

8. Leaders celebrate. 

Recognize your team’s achievements and make a big deal out of them.

There are different types of leaders, but what’s common among the best of them is an abiding love for their people and a desire to see them grow and succeed.