A Model Leader

If you own your business you are a leader.  But how best to become a model leader?

The dog world often has various types of human leaders.  Some are based on discipline, others on rewarding and some just based on the human and canine bonding.  The most successful teams are always those in synergy with one another, working together, never apart.  Our business leadership style can learn much from the binding between a canine and their handler. 

You can lead by mentorship.  That has always been a favorite of ours.  Great mentors are true gems.  They provide experience and have a vested interest in teaching, educating, and helping others model for success.  Older dogs will often mentor younger dogs, correcting bad behavior and teaching them to be better playmates.  Their version of mentoring.

You can lead by emulating successful manager or leaders.  They can be famous business owners who have invariably written books on their rise to success.  Reading about their rise to the top will often reap behaviors that helped them to be successful that be ones you can study and perfect.  Just make sure your style fits with theirs.  A forced leadership style is usually not a pathway to success. 

You  an enroll in leadership classes or seminars.  These can be very beneficial to helping business owners rise up and provide strong leadership for their brand.  These can be found at organizations like the SBDC (Small Business Development Center) of the SBA, Women Business Centers of the SBA, Chambers of Commerce,  Professional Industry Organizations, local Personal Coaches, and books, always books.  Find the channel that works with your learning style and your budget. 

You can lead by example.  You can lead by studying other leaders or you can be taught to lead by other leaders or leadership coaches.  Whatever your choice, as a business owner, just lead. It is an expectation of a business owner. 

Be well.