The Vision Thing

Without a doubt the "vision" thing is one of the most mentioned leadership characteristics.  This is for good reason since I have yet to meet the successful leader who doesn't possess a strong idea of where he's going,and how he'll get there.  This picture of the future is typically somewhat simplistic, easy to communicate, and something that transcends just numbers, but rather envisions greater and perhaps even nobler goals.

For the best leaders the vision is a part of them, a connection to how they view the organization, themselves, and the world around them. This internalization allows them to be communicating the vision not just by words, but by deeds, and in their daily interactions with the team.  The vision compels them to act and provides a guidepost to measure all of their actions and the teams actions against.  When clearly communicated, it can give the team confidence to take the reins and push forward.

Similarly, poorly communicated visions, or visions that are more lip service than heart felt, can damage a team's effectiveness.  The disingenuous leader not only fails to inspire but can generate a debilatating lack of trust that holds the team back.

Therefore, as the leader, make sure you are comfortable about your own true intentions, your own vision.  Then communicate, communicate, communicate! Talk the vision, use the vision to guide your decisions, and take every opportunity you can to reinforce the vision with your team.  Most of all, recognize and praise those who get it, the ones who act on the vision and use it to steer their actions.  This more than anything else will prove you are "real" and will emergize the team to action and high performance.