An Interview about My Leadership Style
A young man who attends our church is seeking a leadership degree. Recently he interviewed me for a paper he was required to write. I ask his permission and decided to share my answers here.
What type of leadership do you mostly exhibit?
The leader should paint the vision, hire the right people, and then release them to do their job. I try to get out of the way of people who are doing good work.
How do the traits that you have differ from those that “follow” you?
Two ways:
1. I am a very big picture guy. I hate micro-management and I hate details. I try to compliment my skills partly with people who can balance my big picture, strategic thinking with detail implementation skills.
2. I’m 46 years old. I realize the best new ideas for the future will likely come from the next generation. (ie. Facebook, Google, Twitter). I try to surround myself with younger people. I also like people who will continue to challenge me.
How do you use power and influence? If at all?
I try not to use power. If I’m using it, it’s usually not a pretty day in the office. I try to use my influence to help people make wise decisions in their areas, balancing risk-taking, with practicality, affordability, and reason.
How is innovation applied to your leadership style?
You should read my category on innovation on my blog, but basically I love change and new ideas, so I’m consistently looking for ways to stir things up around me. I also like continual improvement and critical thinking, so I’m always thinking, “How could this be made/done better?”
Do you employ strategic leadership? How?
I hope so. That’s one of my strengths according to StrengthsFinders. My desire is to think how each decision will impact other people and the organization as a whole. I consider myself extremely purposeful, and I try to practice purposeful leadership, mostly because as I look at the life of Jesus, I see Him continually seeming to be strategic in how He led the disciples and continues to lead people today.
I thought these were great questions. Now, here are three questions for you:
- Could you work for a guy like me?
- What would drive you crazy about my style?
- How would you answer these questions?
