The Leadership Contract Field Guide

Chapter 8Leadership Is a Community—Connect

Let's start this chapter with a quick activity. I'd like you to close your eyes for a moment and think about the attributes of the leadership culture that would enable you to be at your best as a leader. Imagine a leadership culture so vibrant, so inspirational, and so supportive that it drives you and your colleagues to achieve higher levels of performance each and every day.

Activity 8.1: Describe the Leadership Culture That Would Enable You to Be at Your Best as a Leader

10 minutes to complete

Find a pen or pencil and write down all the attributes that come to mind in the following space.

I've asked this same question of leaders around the world. It is always surprising to me how consistent the themes are that emerge from our discussions. The attributes of truly compelling leadership cultures most frequently shared are:

• Leaders have a high sense of trust with each other.
• Mutual support is very strong.
• They have strategic clarity.
• Leaders are committed and passionate about the company.
• There is positive energy in the company.
• Leaders respect and value the capabilities of everyone.
• They hold each other accountable.
• They give each other feedback to ensure they are successful.
• Politics and grandstanding are absent.
• Leaders feel ...