27 words leaders should use

By Jerry Bellune

The July 2018 Leadership Letter
As a young editor, my boss would often wave an early edition and demand, “Who wrote this headline?”
Other editors would hunker down, glad that it wasn’t one of their headlines that provoked his wrath.
If it was one I wrote, I would admit it.
Was the ax going to fall and I would be looking for other work?
“Great headline,” he would say. “Thank you.”
Other editors would say nothing but I could coast a week on his words.
Leaders often forget how powerful praise can be — and the example it sets.

Leadership expert Ron Edmondson says our goals should be to encourage, strengthen and challenge our people.
Just as cheerleaders rouse fans at games, we should use our influence to bring out the best in others.
Much of this is done by the things we say and do.
It is why I started writing a “Thursday Morning Quarterback” email to praise good work in our newspapers.
When I was busy with other projects I let it lapse until a colleague reminded me.
“All of us look forward to it,” she said. Had she said nothing, I would not have started wiring it again,
Edmundson recommends intentionally using 27 words with our people.
Thank you. Two of the most powerful words in our language and often the most appreciated.
• I believe in you. Don’t say it if you don’t mean it. As leaders, we should surround ourselves with people we believe in. Tell them.
• You are an asset. Let them know they make a difference. One of the best ways to do this is by bragging on people when they do something well in front of the rest of the team. Even the most introverted person enjoys this kind of recognition.
• I’ll support you. Empowering leaders encourage their people to step out on their own. When they take risks for the benefit of the team, they need to know you have their backs – even when mistakes are made.
• Great job. If they did well, tell them. Celebrate wins to encourage the team to strive for more wins.
• I’ll help you reach your goals. This could even mean losing them but it protects their loyalty while they are with you. They are willing to work with you because they know you won’t attempt to hold them back from their goals.
• I respect you. What is it that impresses you about your team members? What do they uniquely add? Tell them. There’s power in this.
• I trust you. This requires more than words. You’ll have to prove it with your actions. But, when a team member feels trusted by the leader they are more willing to take risks. They will have more loyalty to the leader — trusting the leader in return. They will be more likely to overlook the days you aren’t leading quite as well.
You may not be able to use these phrases every day. Don’t overuse them. They need to be genuine, heartfelt and honest. These aren’t to be used every week but they will help you build a better team.
Any phrases you would add?
Your Leadership Challenge
1. What steps must you take to be more encouraging as a leader?
2. How can you build their confidence and desire to excel?
3. How can you use praise to show your team the performance that’s needed?

July Takeaway. The above is from “Lead People, Manage Things: Volume 1.” Would you like to order autographed copies of the book for your people as a discussion guide on leadership this year? For special bulk order rates, email me at [email protected]

Jerry Bellune and his family own and operate online and print book, magazine, newspaper and newsletter publishing companies in South Carolina.