Week 21: Eagle Focus
Most Powerful Leadership Tool
We are approaching the midpoint of our Eagle Teams Peer Group Experience. Using our discussions from our last session about “leading above” and “below the line,” we are delving further into our influence as leaders. In this session, we will consider the most powerful leadership tool - Validation. Validation means to recognize, affirm and speak another person’s personality language. This is where influence truly begins. We will discuss the “Essential Gifts” that allow us to validate each personality in a unique way. Learning how to honor and respect each unique personality type will help us grow as a more effective and influential leader.
Essential Gift
The “Essential Gift” for working with each personality:
THE MONKEY: Much-Loved Monkeys are honored with verbal feedback and positive reinforcement. They bring enthusiasm while embracing change. Monkeys need a mix of positive and constructive feedback.
THE LION: Leading Lions are fast-paced and “make it happen” people. They appreciate direct communication and honest feedback. The quickest way to destroy a relationship with a lion is to attack their ability to meet the challenge.
THE CAMEL: Competent Camels respond well to methodical, rule-based processes. They love stability and structure. Creating an environment of chaos will significantly damage the relationship with a camel.
THE TURTLE: When working with a Tranquil Turtle, realizing that they need time to reflect on the issues at hand is incredibly important. Turtles do not like conflict. When we challenge a turtle without giving them time to process information, it is likely that they will completely shut down and crawl back in their shell.
How are you currently delivering the “Essential Gift” of validation in the lives of those who are in your circle of influence?
As we prepare for this discussion, it might be beneficial to review Chapter 8 in the Make A Difference E-book. Remember to use your Eagle Teams Digital Notebook to document any reflections or thoughts you might have after reading.
