Leaders Watched Globally and Evaluated – the US Presidential Election

The US Presidential Election

Were you like me last night, glued to the votes rolling in for Biden and Trump? Nerve-racking, shocking, depressing… should I go on about the US Presidential Election.  This morning at dawn, TV back on for an update? 

This process has been fascinating to watch. We have witnessed leadership attributes, many questionable against what we as a society deem as qualities of a good leader.

There is extensive leadership theory to draw upon, in addition to one’s own leadership experiences, working with, or evaluating from afar what we deem as positive or negative leadership characteristics. 

Leader Characteristics

You may agree or disagree with the following characteristics; however, bear with me:

Even though we are living through a global pandemic, global warming, increasing terrorism, natural resource scarcity, and an imploding economy – the ridiculousness of some of the leadership antics watched leading up to the election captured more of the spotlight.

Leadership Context

Although leadership context changes over time, fundamentally, specific practices, actions, and behaviours remain essentially the same that demonstrate healthy and robust leadership practices. I believe an exceptional leader ‘walks the talk’ and leads by example. They can articulate their ‘why’ and promote a shared vision. Leaders acknowledge that the journey is one of continuous learning, and they endeavour to do better and be better.  Engaging and motivating leaders encourage individuals to step up, not be frightened of failure and persevere. 

US Presidential Election Announcement

So, as we await the final US Presidential Election announcement of 2020, please don’t lose track of how you want to lead and be perceived by your peers and colleagues. 

• Credibility is foundational – this is one non-negotiable. A useful mnemonic to remember is DWYSYWD Do What You Say You Will Do – it is that simple.

• Values speak volumes and drive commitment in organizations. Values are what you care about and how you operate as a leader – what are yours?

• Forward-looking with a long-term focus enables leaders to identify optimistic possibilities. What are your leadership goals for the remainder of the year and 2021?

• Trust in your leadership capabilities and competence is essential.  Developing trust will help you get things done, develop and nurture relationships, bring people together cohesively, and be a cornerstone of your brand. Trust comes from demonstrating leadership traits such as clear and analytical communication, consistent behaviour and being open and candid. On a scale of 1-10 (10 being the highest), where would you rank the trust that others have in your leadership capabilities and competence? What areas can you focus on improving?

As we await the US Presidential Election results, remember it is not over till it is over — stay tuned!