THE CENTRAL FOCUS

What do people say about you when you are not in the room? It is a simple question, but it is one that every leader should take seriously. Leadership is not only about the position you occupy, the organisation you lead, or the results you achieve. It is also about the trust you build, the relationships you develop, the values you demonstrate and the way people remember their experience with you. In many ways, leadership begins with influence, but influence is strengthened by trust. People may follow your instructions because of your position, but they follow your leadership because they trust you. That trust does not happen overnight. It is built through consistency, integrity, competence, humility and the way you treat people. This is why reputation has become one of the most important assets a leader can have. A strong reputation can open doors, create partnerships, attract opportunities and give people confidence in your leadership. On the other hand, a damaged reputation can make...