Leading Everyday – Tell a personal story

 

As leaders, we are so used to buzzwords and catchphrases: teamwork, collaboration, continuous improvement, “there’s no ‘I’ in we,” synergy (80s throwback!), and the list can go on and on. 

I get it. We want to create a culture within our teams where everyone is watching out for each other, truly cares for one another, and is a good steward of our resources. But buzzwords and catchphrases or nothing but that. 

They are jargon that, if they have no connection with reality and personal experiences, at best, people will nod their heads in agreement and not truly understand the spirit that you are trying to capture. And at worst, they will ignore them as just another flavor of the month and completely miss the intention behind it.

Leaders need to put a personal touch on them to capture the spirit behind buzzwords and catchphrases. 

Leaders need to breathe life into buzzwords and slogans and grip the hearts and minds of those they lead. 

To accomplish that, leaders need to tell a story. Stories that inspire, motivate and encourage. It’s crucial that when telling the story, the right words should be used and cognizant that there is much power in words.

I want to share three key things about what a personal story can do with the message that you are trying to deliver:

Relate – those you lead can better relate to your words. In a previous blog post, “Leading with Excellence – Does your team reflect you?” I use a personal story to deliver the message of those I lead, reflecting your character, attributes, and the culture of the company I work for. Using a personal account will allow those you lead to relate to you at a personal level. They will understand that you put your pants on one leg at a time, just like they do. 

Make it real – using a story will deliver a real message. It’s not enough with concepts and theory. The report will bring to light that your message is firmly rooted in the personal experience that you have gone through as a leader. Those you lead will know that the message you are trying to deliver is as accurate as the person standing before them providing the news. 

Influence and inspire – Buzzwords and catchphrases do not influence and encourage themselves. They are shells of what is truly inside. And what’s inside is a story that those you lead can relate to and know is real. When you touch the hearts and minds with your account, it will drive people to action because they will recognize something tangible at the end of that journey. 

What else can a personal story do for your leadership endeavors?