Leaders, are you looking like a fool with your pants on the ground?

Several weeks ago a singer, though not a serious one, by the name of Larry Platt was a contestant, though not a serious one, on American Idol. If you didn’t see Larry on American Idol his song is hilarious and catchy. I have included the clip below in case you didn’t see it or would like to see it again.

 

Larry sings a song he wrote titled “Pants on the Ground,” It got me thinking, when are leaders “looking like a fool with their pants on the ground?” Here are a few I came up with. Note: This would be a good time to play the clip if you haven’t seen it yet.

 

1. When they don’t listen. Listening is about being interested in something or someone else besides you. Put down the blackberry. Make eye contact. Ask questions. Use proper body language and facial expressions.
2. When they aren’t available. Leaders who don’t return phone calls or email, constantly shut their door, never schedule regular meetings with employees - can’t effectively lead.   
3. When they try to be like “one of the gang.” Leaders can’t be like the gang. They must never get involved in pity parties, criticism of other leaders or the organization, show favoritism or even grab drinks after work with the “gang.” 

I have listed three, there are more. When do leaders look like fools with their pants on the ground? I am looking forward to your comments. Let’s see how long we can make this list. Have fun!

 

Mike Rogers

 

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Comments

[Rick Robinson]

How about when they delegate before developing. They take someone with a technical expertise, make them a supervisor, and tell them to, "Let me know if you need any help." Classic

[Jack Bruce]

Mike, Great blog. Short and to the point and very practical. Thanks for sharing. Your first point is so critical because we as leaders need to realize that we don't know it all--Gaining from the insight of others is crucial to our success.

I recently developed a team building exercise for our staff that illustrates a starting point for implementing your first point. It was so successful with our team that I wrote a blog (Say What You Need to Say) at http://wp.me/pBhtB-47

[Mike Rogers]

Rick, I love your "classic." I agree. Leaders who try to lead without experience or talent, will often "look like a fool." Not to mention the leader who put them in that position in the first place. They will lack the trust and ability to lead effectively. Technical ability does not equal leadership. Some are born with it, other aren't is my opinion. You can train to a point, but the most effective leaders have some talent too.

Jack, thanks for your kind words on the blog : )And thanks for sharing the team building exercise. This will work great for a team I am working with right now.

- Mike

[Stavros Klinger]

Pants down?

I'm looking like a sleazebag, not a fool.