Lessons Learned from My Grandfather

My grandfather taught me many things during his lifetime, and what I learned about being a leader came from observing him. It wasn't until I was a teenager that I realized my grandfather was a prominent person in our community and in neighboring states.

Doctors, lawyers, and teachers were among the hundreds of people he mentored. Countless others sought him for advice. Yet, my grandfather only had an eighth grade formal education.

How was he able to lead people? First, my grandfather never stopped learning. He was a veracious reader. A leader should never stop learning. It is important to stay informed of trends, cutting-edge ideas, and future directions for his/her industry. Stay ahead of the game to be considered a thought leader in your industry.

My grandfather was a skilled communicator. The churches that he lead, flourished under his administration, in part, because of his ability to communicate his vision to people at all levels within those organizations. He was able to build excitement and momentum for the strategic plans that he developed, in order to move those organizations forward. He also built alliances among congregants and business leaders in order to gain support for bulding and rennovation projects for those churches. Excellent communication skills are essential in helping a leader effectively share key information with employees as well as other stakeholders.

Besides being a skilled communicator, my grandfather had great people skills. He knew how to manage people. My grandfather had a natural talent for picking the right people to carry out specific tasks. Picking the right people is not enough by itself, leaders have to be able to give praise and reprimand people when necessary. My grandfather could correct people without yelling or degrading them. He showed strength as a leader without drawing attention to himself; and he willingly shared the credit with others when goals were accomplished. It is important that leaders maintain a sense of humility; it is when leaders take themselves too seriously, that problems often arise.

My gramdfathher was involved in religious and civic organizations -- leading a number of them -- and helped people in the community through those organizations. Whether appointed or self-motivated, leaders frequently find themselves in key roles in clubs and organizations where they are members. Many leaders also have philanthropic interests and believe in giving back or helping others through their organizational affiliations.

Finally, and most important, my grandfather was family-focused. He was the patriach of his immediate family, and extended family of siblings, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. He, along with my grandmother, made sure family members' needs were met. He also provided guidance and planned for the future in such a way that those family members left behind after his death, had a secure existence. Leaders ensure that their families and businesses are able to survive long after they are gone. Savvy leaders develop and execute succession plans that contribute to the sustainability, future growth, and development of their businesses.

The lessons I learned from my grandfather have contributed to my success as a leader. It is my hope that you will use them to enhance your own career.