CCLR | Leadership Risks

A wise leader, a former Superintendent of Schools in San Francisco, offered these points as you consider the work of leading. While brief, they offer insights which may help you and your team reduce risks and avoid unnecessary conflicts.

1	There are times when you should rejoice in conflict.
2	Do know where the buck stops in your organization?
3	If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.
4	You may become stronger, if you will allow some of your power to be wrested from you.
5	Avoid getting into a urinating battle with a skunk.
6	If you want a "yes" answer, try to reach the top man / woman.
7	Believe in the good intent of people.
8	He who slings mud loses ground.
9	Know that much conflict is role-playing, much is spoken for effect.
10	Know what to take as personal weakness, what is not your responsibility.
11	Be alert to the imprisoning nature of some bureaucracies.
12	Talk to your friends: don't try to convince the “unconvinceables.”
13	Watch out that you don't spring surprises on others, especially on your own boss.
14	Know which battles to fight.
15	When you seek to involve others in decision-making, share with them important responsibilities, not scullery-maid duties.
16	Once the rules of the game are set, be careful they are not changed without mutual agreement.
17	Beware of arguments with people who buy ink by the barrel: remember that the press prints every day.
18	When five people or more know something, it's no longer a secret.
19	Be able to tell someone to go to hell in such a way that he/she cannot wait to get there.
20	Be suspicious of people or institutions who claim they have no problems.
		LIMIT RISK II >>