Leadership in Your Own Right

True leadership is a quality that many possess but few exhibit. Recently, I read an excellent post from Robin Sharma's email newsletter that discussed Nelson Madela's 8 leadership lessons. These lessons are great advice to live by, but how do they transfer to the world of social media?



1. Courage is not the absence of fear - it's inspiring others to move beyond it:



Nothing happens in life unless we take risks. This does not mean we jump into any and everything we see, but rather take calculated risks with some understanding of the outcomes. Still, it takes courage to be the first to venture in a new direction, but by doing so you inspire others to follow. While social media expands into new frontiers, we as a community are encouraged to push those boundaries, experiment and share.  Growth comes thru courage.



2. Lead from the front but don't leave your base behind:



Whether you're writing a blog, creating a new application, and managing a business, the leader must never forget their base of supporters. A quality leader will always make sure their team is on track. Leaving anyone behind will only create trouble and eventually a fractured community. Have no fears taking charge, but always remember that your base has entrusted you to lead them to a successful outcome.



3. Lead from the back and let others believe they are in front:



This may seem counter productive to the previous item, but take a look at the lesson again. Leadership is not always about being in the lead. Many think leadership means a top position at the head of the ranks, but a true leader is measured by how many people they can raise up and make successful. Leadership is just a means, not an end.



4. Know your enemy and learn about his favorite sport:



I dare say anyone in the social media community is an "enemy." But look a the community as your competition, a measuring stick of sorts. I order to succeed  you need to know the game you're playing. Learn what others are doing, educate yourself and be better. Make yourself unique, create a brand that the community can rally around and support.



5. Keep your friends close - and your rivals even closer:



Online there is something for everyone, and chances are you are not the only peson writing or producing the product of choice. Your rivals are basically those in the same arena as you. The word rival may dredge up some unsavory images, but the competition is what will keep us on our toes. Always be aware of what others in your field are doing. Follow pertinent trade publications and business reports to stay current on trends and issues that relate to your field. By keeping a close eye on the aforementioned items, your product remains current and relevant.



6. Appearances matter - and remember to smile:



This lesson is especially important in today's online world. Appearances do matter, since you are judged by the product you put out. What face do you want people to see, are you transparent enough to communicate with your community? A friendly and open business tends to rally more supporters from their customer base, and eventually sees more success. This again goes back to personal brand, which essentially will make you or break you. You can read a great series of articles from Chris Brogan on personal brands here.



7. Nothing is black or white:



This little lesson is something we should always hold dear to us, whether in the real world or virtual world, nothing is black or white. Never take anything for face value when you're taking charge. Look at all sides, make sound decisions based on research, analysis, and understanding. Being a leader means people are watching. Always consider alternatives in order to be successful, because there is always more than one side to every situation.



8. Quitting is leading too:



Knowing when to retreat is not cowardice, it's tactical. A solid leader knows that sometimes retreating or quitting is the best option. It saves time, money, and/or resources. Rethinking and retooling are a part of the growth process. DON'T let pride take you down a slippery slope. Too many leaders will trudge forward despite the overwhelming roadblocks that repeatedly impede success. By pulling back, you have the opportunity to evaluate your progress and plan better for the future.



These rules of leadership are vital for everyone person reading this piece. There are no limits to our own success except the limits we put on ourselves. Take to heart the lessons above and build on them. Relate them to what you do and apply them.



Photo Credit, p c w