Leading by Example: Importance and Positive Outcomes

Leading by Example
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Leading by Example
All over the world, followers tend to look up to their leaders for guidance and direction at all times. Leaders, by virtue of their positions, have the capacity to influence their followers. As such, they are mandated to rally people towards a shared goal. Most people prefer the leaders to display a hands-on approach where their much-needed input will not only be felt but seen. In essence, the reaction of leaders in situations, especially difficult ones, usually has much bearing on how their followers react. According to an article by Segal (2020), leaders are signal senders and they should always strive to send positive signals. As such, leaders must strive to set proper standards and precedents for the people they lead. This paper examines the article by Segal (2020) to unearth the significance of leading by example.
Firstly, leading by example is important because it is a way of giving guidance to people. For instance, when the COVID 19 vaccine was discovered, there was so much controversy surrounding it. In light of this, leaders took to the frontline to have it administered to them (Segal, 2020). Subsequently, this dispelled the doubts and fear that had overwhelmed the masses. With their confidence boosted, people overwhelmingly embraced the vaccine. Secondly, leading by example is an implicit way in which leaders can set standards and give direction in an organization (Segal, 2020). From their conduct, leaders can make employees clearly understand what is expected of them. It also emphasizes the seriousness of having people moving in a certain direction. It is believed that ethical values in leaders inspire the same amongst their followers (Verdorfer & Peus, 2019). Leading by example can also enhance the integrity and trustworthiness of the leaders especially if they do what they profess (Eisenkopf, 2020). Leaders who give an attentive ear to their followers and are cooperative, create an environment that enhances performance. The ability to listen is an important leadership quality because, naturally, people want to be heard and understood (Segal, 2020). When a person is heard, he becomes happy and therefore productive.
Two Ways to Lead by Example
  A good leader must lead by example to create a healthy relationship with followers. Two ways in which a leader can effectively lead by example are by showing fortitude and being forthright. Fortitude in any leader, as pointed out by Segal (2020), is utterly important as it shows strength, especially in the face of a crisis. Leaders are influencers and should therefore do everything at their disposal to ensure that their followers do not panic in the face of difficulties. If,...