Chevrons and leadership

‘The chevrons on your epaulettes don’t make you a leader!’ That was the blunt advice given to me by a senior member of my team when I took on the role as team leader. The words were said by a man who had twice my years on this planet and a long career in the NSW Police Force, so I listened. What he was telling me was just because I had a role as the team lead, it wasn’t a right I received by virtue of appointment, I had to earn it through the trust and actions viewed from the eyes of the members of my team. When I use the term ‘my team’ I am not claiming ownership but stating that I was a part of that team and am incredibly proud to have been.

This man, Mr C, was incredibly wise and someone I would approach when I needed advice or a good laugh. He was winding down his career but was happy to pass on knowledge when requested. He made me think about what kind of leader I wanted to be? My years since have taught me to look honestly at what type of leader I am currently and how to improve upon that. A good place to start when reflecting on this question is to think of leadership attributes you admire about others? What qualities would you like to emulate? An open, approachable style is typically well received by team members. Also think about what tendencies you may wish to avoid? Micromanaging can be a common issue as a new leader hasn’t yet developed the trust and confidence within their team to allow members to represent them wholly.
One comment I hear far too often is ‘I’m not a leader’. Leadership isn’t an appointment, it’s a choice. Just as the extra chevrons didn’t make me a leader at the time, neither does a position, role or classification. Leadership is the demonstration of ability and holding yourself accountable for your actions and those around you. Leadership is doing the things that must be done to make things better for those around you. Anyone can be a leader. Everyone should be a leader. Not just in the workplace, not just at home but in life.
PDR