Page 84 - The extraordinary leader

Simplifying Leadership • 61

without moving to Stage IV. For that group, there is one more tent pole that
must be erected to make them complete leaders. First, let’s examine what they
must accomplish.
Stage IV leaders are that group of individuals in the organization who:

● Create the overarching vision for the organization
● Define the strategic direction of the firm
● Exercise strong influence over the critical decisions that are made
● Represent the organization to the outside world, including customers,
suppliers, and trade associations
● Are the antenna to the outside world, collecting information and
scanning the horizon for change
● Shape the culture
● Allocate resources among competing groups
● Translate the strategic direction into personal objectives for people
For each individual at each stage, leadership looks different. Table 3-1
describes the necessary elements of personal capability for Stage II, Stage III,
and Stage IV leaders.

Focus on Results

Our model for effective leadership now takes on a new dimension (Figure 3-4).
It would be ideal if we could erect these next two tent poles simultaneously.
These two elements, Focus on Results and Interpersonal Skills, require that
Character and Personal Capability be in place, but it appears to make no dif-
ference which of these two components comes after that. Indeed, there exists
a remarkable relationship between these two components of leadership.
How does a leader focus on results? Here are some of the ways:

● Establishes stretch goals for their people
● Takes personal responsibility for the outcomes of the group
● Provides ongoing feedback and coaching to his or her people
● Sets loftier targets for the group to achieve
● Personally sponsors an initiative or action
● Initiates new programs, projects, processes, client relationships, or
technology