Thoroughly enjoyed engaging with the Senior Sales Management Team of Shalimar Paints. Their commitment to learning and openness to new ideas for improving their leadership skills was truly commendable. I was equally inspired by their valuable experiences and insights into sales leadership.
A key highlight of our discussions was addressing common misconceptions about leadership and the importance of clarifying these misplaced beliefs to foster a deeper understanding of what effective leadership is truly all about.
Here are a few leadership-related misconceptions for your consideration:
MISCONCEPTION #1 – Leadership is talent.
REALITY – Although leadership comes naturally to some, yet with proper education, experience, environment & mentoring, it can be developed in others too. That’s why it’s called Leadership ‘SKILLS’.
MISCONCEPTION #2 – Leaders never get angry
REALITY – Leaders are human, and like all humans are prone to emotions including anger. However, what sets Leaders apart from others is their deliberate and strategic training in managing anger and ensuring it isn’t expressed in an unreasonable and destructive manner. They understand the value of anger and know how to channel it purposefully.
MISCONCEPTION #3 – Leaders like all their team members
REALITY - Do you like everyone on your team? Of course, you don’t. However, you don’t let your personal feelings for a team member - I am intentionally not using the word ‘dislike’ here - interfere with building a productive working relationship with him or her. As a professional, you understand that, ultimately, the job needs to get done in collaboration with others, regardless of your likes, dislikes or preferences That’s what true leadership is all about.
MISCONCEPTION #4 – Leaders have all the answers.
REALITY – Not at all. Everyone has limitations in their knowledge and skills, no matter how intellectual they may seem to others. So, although leaders may not have all the answers, they know how to, from whom to, and when to, seek out the required information. They don’t let the show stop.
MISCONCEPTION #5 – Leaders can’t be wrong for sake of their credibility
REALITY - Leaders are human, to err is human, so leaders err. Simple. But that’s not what damages a leader’s credibility. What destroys a Leader’s reputation is – refusal to acknowledge mistakes, unwillingness to improve and pretend unashamedly that all is well when it isn’t. Great leaders accept their errors, take responsibility, avoid blaming games, learn from their experiences, and grow stronger."
Trust these newfound insights will help you further your leadership journey.
Leadership Workshop for Zonal Sales Managers (ZSMs), Shalimar Paints. Gurgaon
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