Recently, I came across a fascinating story about the Statue of Liberty that got me thinking about what it truly means to excel as a leader. The Statue of Liberty, a remarkable neoclassical sculpture gifted by France to the United States, stands tall on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Designed by the French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, this colossal copper statue has become a universal symbol of freedom and democracy since its dedication on October 28, 1886.
The story that caught my attention was shared by the renowned Broadway lyricist Oscar Hammerstein. While observing the top of the Statue of Liberty from a helicopter, he was struck by the incredible attention to detail that Bartholdi had dedicated to an area that was never intended to be seen by the public. Bartholdi himself acknowledged that he never anticipated the top would be visible, yet he meticulously sculpted every inch, adding symbolic depth to the monument’s representation of freedom and ideals, even in unseen places.
As I reflected further on this story, I thought about our commitment to being “difference makers” at Etech and what that looks like day to day. Bartholdi knew it was unlikely people would ever see the top of the statue, but he worked on the details with the same commitment and enthusiasm as he did on the parts of the statue that he knew would be on full display. I wonder if we take the same approach with every task at Etech, whether it is something that will be wildly recognized or something that only we know the impact it could make?
What are the qualities of an exceptional leader?
Reflecting on my years in the BPO industry, I have identified several qualities that set exceptional leaders apart and allow them to excel in their roles to make a difference.
1. Unwavering Enthusiasm
Exceptional leaders possess an unwavering enthusiasm that fuels their every action, large or small. They approach tasks with vigor, passion, and an infectious zeal that inspires those around them. This level of enthusiasm is not governed by the size or perceived importance of the task at hand; rather, it stems from an intrinsic love for their work and a drive to excel in all they do. By maintaining a consistently high level of enthusiasm, these leaders set an example that motivates others to embrace their roles with the same fervor, fostering an environment of productivity and excellence.
2. Continuous Growth
Outstanding leaders never stop developing, growing, learning, and improving their skills. They understand that, just as a dull axe requires more effort to cut, complacency hinders progress. They actively seek opportunities to sharpen their skills and embrace the wisdom that time spent honing one’s abilities is never wasted.
3. Integrity and Reliability
Leaders who excel are known for their unwavering integrity and reliability. They understand that trust is the foundation upon which all successful relationships are built, and they conscientiously uphold their word and commitments. These leaders are transparent in their actions and communications, fostering an environment of openness and accountability. By consistently delivering on their promises, they earn the respect and confidence of those around them, solidifying their position as reliable and trustworthy leaders. This integrity extends beyond mere words; it is reflected in their daily conduct, decision-making processes, and ethical practices, serving as a beacon for others to follow.
4. Positive Attitude
Exceptional leaders possess an unshakable positive attitude that allows them to navigate even the most challenging circumstances with grace and resilience. They understand that adversity is an inevitable part of life, and that their response to it can shape the outcome. Instead of succumbing to negativity or despair, these leaders consciously choose to embrace a positive mindset, seeing obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning. Their optimism is contagious, inspiring those around them to adopt a similar outlook and fostering an environment of hope, determination, and perseverance. By maintaining a positive attitude, they not only overcome challenges more effectively but also cultivate a culture of encouragement and support, empowering their teams to reach new heights of success.
5. Going Above and Beyond
The secret to success lies in consistently doing more than is expected. Remarkable leaders understand that merely meeting expectations is not enough to truly excel; they strive to surpass them at every opportunity.
As we kick off another month, I encourage you to reflect on these qualities and consider how you can further cultivate them in your own leadership journey. 2024 is flying by, and with each passing day, new opportunities arise for you to make a positive impact and excel as a leader.
Learn how to cultivate unwavering enthusiasm, continuous growth, integrity, a positive attitude, and the drive to go the extra mile at Etech. Start your journey now!
