William Arthur Ward said:
The mediocre teacher tells.
The good teacher explains.
The superior teacher demonstrates.
The great teacher inspires.
If we swapped the word “manager” for “teacher”, what kind of manager would you be?
You’ll identify yourself as mediocre if you tell your staff what and when to do something.
If you explain HOW all of it needs to be done, you’ll see yourself as a good manager. Explanations are helpful but often too tight and stifle creativity.
A superior manager shows others the attitudes and actions needed. They walk their talk.
But a great manager inspires. They open the mind and spirit of their teams by simply guiding and encouraging. By coaching others, great managers open the floodgates of confidence, motivation and innovation.
Action – I’m sure someone stands out in your past or present as a great manager, leader and teacher. What lessons do you need to learn from this person? How can you model their behavior and mindset?
At some level we all manage others. Do it well and you will be inspiring others.