Becoming a Leader Others Follow: Key Questions for Building Trust and Integrity

As you know, leadership is more than a title, in fact most leaders don't hold the title. Think back over your life to who influenced you the most and I'd bet you a cheeseburger it wasn't someone who had a VIP parking spot, or their name on the door!

I still remember my 7th grade wood shop teacher and the impact he had on me. I know you're shocked to hear I took woodshop, but power tools are hip! Mr. Shoebarum was the kind of man that could tell you with a simple look that everything was going to be ok. No matter how many bandsaw blades I broke, I knew he was proud of me. He had a presence about him that made 13 year old awkward, dorky kids feel like they weren't so awkward. He was even keeled, kind and thoughtful and loved by countless students and staff.

More recently I worked with a CAO that made the whole staff feel like they were awkward and dorky. I have to say, not too many things rattle my cage but some "wanna-be-leaders" that throw their weight around, overstepping and bullying make me say extra prayers for patience and wisdom.

I trust the 7th grade woodshop teacher over the pushy Chief Administrative Officer!

If you're a leader, or hoping to be tapped to lead, its important to understand how to be trusted and respected by those you serve and lead. So just how do you ensure you're worthy of that trust? Sometimes, the best way to grow is by taking a step back to reflect on your motives and actions, not as a critique but as a gentle reminder of the values that are most important to you.

Below are a few questions to help guide this self-reflection. They aren’t meant to challenge or confront, but rather to support you as you seek to lead with greater purpose and integrity while earning trust like Mr. Shoebarum did!

Take a moment to review each one and see how it resonates with your leadership goals.

• Am I driven by purpose or personal gain? Leaders who are "leader-worthy" focus on a mission that goes beyond themselves, striving to uplift their teams and make a positive impact. Reflect on whether your leadership serves a larger purpose.

• Do I consistently demonstrate integrity, even when it’s difficult? Leadership worthiness often comes down to trustworthiness and reliability. Ask yourself if you are willing to make tough decisions aligned with your values, even if they’re not the easiest path.

• How well do I listen to and empower others? Great leaders know their role includes amplifying the voices of others. Consider if you genuinely value input from your team and work to help them reach their potential.

• Am I open to growth and feedback? True leaders are constantly evolving. Reflect on whether you actively seek ways to improve, embrace feedback, and model adaptability.

As always friends, I'm cheering for you. Go lead well!

Sharon

P.S. If you need help getting over the fear of leading or struggle with imposter syndrome, I'd love to help you discover your unique leadership voice. Schedule a no pressure call with me here: https://bit.ly/3yvXa07