SLS

Student Leadership & Service

Leadership Bulletins
5 Practices of Exemplary Leadership

Kouzes and Posners Student Leadership Challenge In 1983, researchers Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner set out to determine the most effective strategies and techniques for being a great leader. Kouzes and Posner conducted their research by asking a variety of individuals (not just existing leaders) to talk about what they did when they were at their personal best in terms of leadership. The results were this student was a model known as the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership. According to K&P, these qualities are essential to taking leadership from ordinary to extraordinary. 1. Model the Way The first practice concerns the ways in which leaders set example for those whom they lead. Positive role modeling, however, is only part of the story. Modeling the way is also about aligning your personal values with your actions as a leader. Practice what you preach as the saying goes, and set the stage for others. Here are just a few strategies for modeling the way: open a dialogue about personal and shared values, tell stories about teachable moments, make a plan and share it with your group, and take personal interest in everything. 2. Inspire a Shared Vision Every leader has a vision or an idea for where they would like to see their organization go next. Having a vision is important, as it will guide the decisions you make and work you do in your organization. You cant, however, achieve that vision on your own. Seek buy-in from your group members and make sure they share in your vision. It will not only be easier to accomplish tasks with their support, but they will also share your enthusiasm for the project. Here are just a few strategies for inspiring a shared vision: determine what you want, breathe life into your vision, speak positively, be open about your vision, ask for input, and listen. 3. Challenge the Process One of the greatest threats to any organization is clinging to the past. Leaders look for chances to challenge the status quo, to look for innovative means to improve their organization. This involves a considerable amount of risk-taking and experimentation, but can very well be worth it. Innovation is the engine that drives positive change and should not be neglected, or an organization may fall behind. Here are just a few strategies for challenging the process: include idea gathering on your to-do list, take a class or learn a new skill, experiment, search for programs that need to be fixed, and treat every challenge as an opportunity. 4. Enable Others to Act Great leaders foster collaboration and build strong teams. They involve others in decision-making and understand that cooperation is necessary for success. They strive to create trust and mutual. Enabling others to act is more than just delegation; it is giving others the tools they need and empowering them to be successful. Here are just a few strategies for enabling others to act: increase interactions with group members, form planning and problem-solving partnerships, ensure delegated tasks are relevant and match a persons skills and interests, and educate others! 5. Encourage the Heart It takes a lot of hard work from many people to make an organization successful. It is important for leaders to recognize the accomplishments of the group and individuals. Appreciation not only makes an individual feel great, but it also motivates them to continue to work hard. Be sure to celebrate the small wins along the way. Here are just a few strategies for encouraging the heart: personalize each recognition, be creative in awards and recognition, schedule time for group bonding, cheer others on when they are doing well, and have fun! Cheryl Jenkins Director jenkinsc@meredith.edu Tabitha Underwood Assistant Director tabithau@meredith.edu Betsy Dunn-Williams Assistant Director betsyw@meredith.edu