Page 102 - The extraordinary leader

Simplifying Leadership • 79

5. Focus on Results is linked to Interpersonal Skills. We have earlier
noted the unusually close link between these two characteristics.
Many leaders think that the linkage between Focus on Results and
Interpersonal Skills is an or rather than an and. They believe they can
be one or the other but not both. Whereas each is highly desirable by
itself, they are like a voice being amplified by a great sound system
when they are combined together. The combination of the two ignites
a power that catapults a person into the highest realms of effective
leadership. Focusing on results and setting stretch goals have multiple
links to the interpersonal skills of “inspiring and motivating to high
performance” and to “collaboration and teamwork.”
6. Character links to Leading Organizational Change. Organizations
follow a leader who is perceived as being of high character. The
greater the “connection” that is felt with the leader, the more likely
the organization is to support the change being proposed. That
support is tied to perceptions of the genuineness, caring, and integrity
of the leader.
7. Focus on Results links to Leading Organizational Change. Leading
organizational change is most often a long-term objective, and
effective leaders are always balancing short-term and long-term
objectives. A focus on results is a necessary balance to the
longer-term emphasis on strategic change.
8. Interpersonal Skills links to Leading Organizational Change.
Nowhere is there a higher requirement for consummate interpersonal
skills than in the introduction of strategic change within the
organization. Whether it is an attempt to change the culture or to
implement a major new initiative, trust from others and the
communication skills of the leader are absolute requirements for
success.