Don’t Just Be a Boss, Be a Leader
Most companies have many levels of hierarchy, which means you may have many bosses, or be the boss to many other employees. But that doesn’t mean you are a leader. There are many traits that differentiate the two. Anyone can be ‘in charge’ of a department of employee. But being an effective leader can only be achieved if you know the difference.
Listen – A leader knows the value of listening. You find out so much more information by listening, and your employees feel like they are being heard. Just because you listen, doesn’t mean that you have to change your opinion or decision. But it makes others feel like their opinion is valued.
Learn – A leader recognizes that they are not omnipotent, and that anyone can continue to learn, no matter their position. A leader also encourages learning in their company – and shares their experience and knowledge with others.
Motivate – A leader understands that proper motivation encourages productive employees. Fear and anger are not the only ways to get things done, and a leader would understand the need to find what motivates an employee with out using fear or anger.
Inspire – A leader is always an example on how to behave or how to get things done. And a good leader would be able to inspire their following simply by setting a good example.
The differences between a boss and a leader may seem obvious or insignificant, but a true leader would be able to acknowledge the skills to lead, and emulate them. And a good leader would understand that these skills are necessary for the success of an organization.
The Culture Counts blog is a discussion of law firm culture and legal innovation, including topics such as effective leadership, employee engagement, workplace culture, ideal work environment, company core values, and workplace productivity.
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Klemchuk LLP is a litigation, intellectual property, transactional, and international business law firm dedicated to protecting innovation. The firm provides tailored legal solutions to industries including software, technology, retail, real estate, consumer goods, ecommerce, telecommunications, restaurant, energy, media, and professional services. The firm focuses on serving mid-market companies seeking long-term, value-added relationships with a law firm. Learn more about experiencing law practiced differently and our local counsel practice.
The firm publishes Intellectual Property Trends (latest developments in IP law), Conversations with Innovators (interviews with thought leaders), Leaders in Law (insights from law leaders), Culture Counts (thoughts on law firm culture and business), and Legal Insights (in-depth analysis of IP, litigation, and transactional law).