Leading

"A leader's potential is determined by those closest to him or her."

This is the 'Law of the Inner Circle' that John C. Maxwell shares with leaders in a recent article, "A Leaders Inner Circle," in Leadership Wired.  

The newspapers are replete with stories of business leaders and politicians whose successes or failures are directly attributed to those they selected as advisors.  

Maxwell suggests the following questions for admitting candidates into your inner circle:

1.      Do they display exemplary character in everything they do? 

(Do they represent your highest values and principles?)

2.      Do they bring complementary gifts to the table? 

(Do they bring diverse perspectives to help you see the world differently and with greater depth and breadth?)

3.      Do they hold a strategic position and have influence within the organization? 

(Do they have the power to execute on a leader's decision and are they respected by others?)

4.      Do they add value to the organization and to the leader? 

(Do they have special skills or knowledge that are needed?)

5.      Do they positively impact other members of the inner circle?
(Do they promote harmony within the group and do they have the emotional intelligence to work effectively with others?)

Maxwell tells us that there are two common errors leaders make in selecting their inner circle:  

1) "soliciting praise instead of candor" - picking 'yes' men instead of advisors who will speak their minds

2) "driving away talent so that your power isn't threatened" - leaders can't know everything and should "welcome talent
in areas where they lack strength."

This week may you look at your inner circle through the eyes of Maxwell's questions.  

Do the answers meet your expectations?  

Is your inner circle the one that will enable you to achieve your highest potential? 

Choose wisely; choose well.

Have a beautiful day and a fantastic week!!!