066 How to inspire better leadership from your boss

Is it possible to inspire better leadership from our bosses? In this episode we look at some ways to gain influence to help them be better leaders.

This week’s Inspire Me quote is from the 15th century archbishop Thomas á Kempis”:

“Be not angry that you cannot make others as you wish them to be, since you cannot make yourself as you wish to be.”

How do you influence your boss to be a better leader, especially if you are not aligned. The first prerequisite, Leary and Armin discuss, is to adopt a mindset to become more winsome. One of the best ways to do that is to choose to show respect, regardless of whether you respect their values, approach or capabilities.

Like love, respect is given not earned. Our culture has corrupted that notion. Yet, the Bible makes it clear that we are to show proper respect to everyone (1 Peter 2:17), especially those in authority (1 Peter 2:18, Ephesians 6:5). There are three specific things you can show respect for:

1. Their responsibility and office
2. The challenges they face that are largely hidden from you
3. The presence of the grace of God in the relational situation between you

Second, find ways to serve up praise. You’re not the only one needing praise. Those with high-drives crave it even more. Leary and Armin offer four tips on how to praise your boss:

1. Don’t praise them in public.
2. Praise their effort and effect on business.
3. Praise sparingly, like salt.
4. Always tie the praise to a bigger “why” that they are bought into.

When addressing situations of conflict or destructive behavior, pray for opportunities to give candid feedback on how their behavior is affecting the perception of their personal brand and the business objectives.

This week’s Challenge Me:

Look for an opportunity to help your boss in some way that’s not something you’d ordinarily do. How did they respond? Leave us a comment on our show notes at reinventure.me/66