Leadership: Building Stronger Companies

by Jim Wagoner, CPA | Partner, Director of Tax Services Group and Team Leader of the Professional Services Group

As we all start a new year, many of my clients share with me their goals and action steps they will implement in order to make their organization a more profitable company; a more efficient, leaner company; or an employer of choice, for example. This affords me the opportunity to advise them on how their leadership plays an essential role in the success of achieving their goals.

Most individuals who are highly skilled rarely benefit from heavy-handed management, but strong leadership can inspire them. And with motivated people working with you, you position yourself to more effectively sustain your daily operations and effect positive change for the future of your company. You may achieve powerful results for your company by maintaining these three leadership qualities:

VISIONING: The art of defining short and long-term objectives which establishes a direction for your company. But more importantly, communicating your vision creates a culture of inclusion. People feel they have a stake in the future, and a role to play in your company’s success. In this atmosphere, it is much easier to tap your human resources and develop strategies to accomplish your goals.

HUMILITY: While leaders benefit from having confidence in their abilities, arrogance can have an eroding effect on morale. In contrast, humility cultivates respect and fosters an environment where self-interest takes a backseat to shared objectives, where one person’s accomplishments are everyone’s success.

INTEGRITY: It is easier to motivate people when they trust your motives. One of the best ways to lead is by example, holding yourself to the same standards you set for others.

Individuals tend to thrive when they feel supported, when they feel management is rooting for their success rather than waiting for their failure. Make a concerted effort to acknowledge the contributions of others, maintain a consistent sense of fairness, and take responsibility for your actions and decisions.

Leadership styles vary, and successful strategies will run the gamut from company to company. The challenge often lies in recognizing and addressing the psychological aspects of the workplace. Energizing and motivating the individuals in your company with strong leadership will inevitably have a favorable impact on profitability and growth.