No leader in is right mind wants to be behind the times or behind the eight ball. Maybe you’re there and don’t realize it.  Read what follows by Ron Edmondson and if the shoe fits, wear it!

Originally posted by Ron Edmondson

FIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF AN ANTIQUATED LEADER

What’s important in leadership has changed from when I entered the field of leadership.

Have you noticed?

Leadership principles and practices have had to change because organizations and people have changed.

The fact is that many leaders who are in senior positions these days developed their leadership style in another generation. This has produced a plethora of what I call antiquated leaders.

Antiquated leaders create tension in many organizations, including many churches today.

Perhaps you’ve worked for (or even been — or even are) an antiquated leader.

Here are some characteristics:

1.  KEEPS PEOPLE IN A BOX.

People won’t stick around in a box these days. They demand opportunities for growth. There was once a day when you could pay a decent wage and, through policies and rules, control an employee’s actions. That’s not true anymore.

2.  CONTROLS INFORMATION.

Information is king, and these days people have information available to them in the palm of their hands — literally. Today’s leaders must be free with transparent and current information — including what’s stirring in the leader’s mind and where the organization is going.

3.  ENFORCES A WAITING PERIOD ON YOUNG LEADERS.

Young leaders today want an opportunity to explore, take risks, and make an impact in the world — NOW — TODAY. Successful leaders learn to tap into this energy. Keeping young leaders at a distance won’t work anymore.

4.  ASSUMES A PAYCHECK IS ENOUGH MOTIVATION.

That may have been enough at some point, but today’s workforce demands to know they are doing good work. They want to know that what they are doing is making a difference and is valued on the team. The annual company picnic won’t cut it anymore.

5.  MAKES THE WORK ENVIRONMENT STRICTLY BUSINESS.

The generation entering the new organizational world mixes business with pleasure. They want to enjoy their workplace environment. Today’s leaders must learn to celebrate along the way to success.

Now, take a minute and improve this post with your thoughts.

What would you add to my list?