Start Empowering Your Employees Now!

TO LEAD IS TO EMPOWER

 

Many of us in business have heard the popular aphorism, “People are your greatest asset.” Some of us may even believe it. But is this sentiment reflected in our business world and the way our leaders lead? For the most part, no—and there’s a reason for that.

Here is a short list of "disempowered phrases" that passive followers use:

• Request permission to . . .
• I would like to . . .
• What should I do about . . .
• Do you think we should . . .
• Could we . . .

Here is a short list of "empowered phrases" that active doers use:

• I intend to . . .
• I plan on . . .
• I will . . .
• We will . . .

Successful leaders and managers today are willing to exercise their leadership in such a way that their people are empowered to make decisions, share information, and try new things. Most employees (future leaders) see the value in finding empowerment and are willing to take on the responsibilities that come with it. If future leaders have the wisdom to learn from the experience of present leaders, and if present leaders have the wisdom to build an environment that empowers people, both will share in the benefits.

Andre Plessis
Hospitality Consultant
andreplessis@att.net