Welcome to the May 2008 newsletter!

This month, the newsletter has expanded to bring you more than just insights to property development.

But also includes details on my other business adventures to help you get the most out of your professional world and get the competitive edge in your business.
Article of the Month: Leaders have remarkable employees

A common complaint I often hear from wherever my consulting work takes me, is that managers struggle to find adequate employees. Or their existing employees have a less than desirable attitude towards their work environment, colleagues and workload.
 
I believe you truly get the people (and their accompanying attitudes) that you deserve. Question: if everyone in your workplace behaved as you did, what would the company be like? Your honest answer will reveal what needs to be addressed. The true path to employing high quality staff, that makes those companies around you envious, is exceptional leadership.
 
Leaders are strong, not rude. People can mistake strength for ‘telling it how it is’. Often this is a justification for being arrogant and rude. Arrogance will demonstrate a non team player and will breed resentment.

This does not mean to exclude criticism, constructive criticism and feedback can be powerful in creating a solid team but there is no reason that it can’t be conducted pleasantly.
 
Leaders are kind, not weak. Kindness is telling someone the truth, it’s discipline and it’s credit where credit is due. Don’t underestimate the importance of positive reinforcement and feedback. Despite misconceptions, employees value encouraging recognition more than salary.
 
Leaders are brave, not tyrants. Brave people lead from the front and tackle problems head on as they arise. If you desire your team to be brave, show them how with your own actions.
 
Leaders are humble, not egotistical. You are in your position through the efforts of the people around you. Express appreciation without being timid.
 
Leaders are proud and confident, not arrogant. Taking pride in your work means taking the extra time and exertion it requires for your work to stand out above the rest. Confidence will inspire dedication, trust and hard work.
 
Leaders apply humour. Don’t underestimate the effectiveness of lightheartedness and humour in the workplace. A sign of a productive and enthusiastic team is laughter.
 
Leaders accept the truth. It is often said the truth will set you free. Leaders deal with the truth, accept it and do something with it.
 
Leaders have wisdom. Leaders exercise wisdom on a regular basis. They know when and how to execute all the traits of a good leader with confidence and seek to constantly improve and expand their knowledge and their skills.
 
More leaders. We all need more leaders in our lives, not just at work but throughout the community. Leaders in organisations aren’t necessarily the ones with a CEO suffix. Notice those around you who are genuine leaders – by the way they act, talk and project themselves.
 
Common traits for leaders: trust, respect, communication, enthusiasm, decisiveness, integrity, consistency, organisation, prioritisation, motivation and innovation.
 
How can you be a leader today?
Warmly,
 
Daniel Lock