In deciding who is promotable within their organization, many executives only look at candidates who have the skills and abilities for the job. However, leaders must also have the respect of their team in order to succeed. Here are some questions to ask prior to making a decision on whom to promote.
Have I Given a 360 Perspective?
Most leaders observe their employees from the top down – evaluating skills, abilities and strengths. What is missing in this evaluation is how the person interacts with those around them. You must evaluate how the candidate communicates with other people, including their listening, writing and speaking skills. Don’t hesitate to speak with the employee’s peers, supervisors and others who interact with them on a regular basis. This is the best way to receive the feedback you need on how the person is respected.
Are They a Team Player?
True leaders are not driven by self-interest, but rather are focused on what is best for the company. They understand that the organization’s success rests on the success of their team. They accept responsibility willingly and give the credit to the team, not to themselves. These characteristics create trust among workers, who will be more eager to follow their example.
Have They Set High Standards?
If you want a leader to be followed and respected, that person must have a clear set of personal standards, and live up to those standards on a consistent basis. Those standards include integrity, professionalism and strength of character. A good question to ask yourself is – would you be willing to follow them?
Are Office Politics Important to Them?
Many employees feel that office politics is the only way to get noticed and get promoted, and will do anything they can to ingratiate themselves to upper management. While wanting to better themselves at the company is admirable, how they go about it is telling to what kind of leader they will become. An individual who gets promoted via politics will usually not have the respect of their peers and subordinates.
How Have They Dealt With Change and Adversity?
Someone once said, “Leaders manage change…managers control processes.” A leader who is not willing to bend from the norm in order to achieve a goal, is not a leader who will be respected. This extends to their personal life – how they deal with individual challenges says a great deal about their character.
Senior management who understand the importance of these factors when deciding on their future leadership will reap the rewards.