How do you create a positive reputation as an influential leader? What are you doing to leave the legacy that you intend? The concept of a leadership legacy often conjures images of grandiose achievements and monumental contributions. However, it’s the subtle, everyday actions that truly shape a leader’s lasting impact. For example, how do you describe a leader who has made an impact on you? After the common “She’s a great leader” or “He’s so influential” how would you finish the follow-up phrase of “for example…”.?
It doesn’t take much. If you want to leave a lasting leadership legacy or improve upon your reputation, think of small gestures that make people feel seen and heard and valued. Those small consistent behaviors over time, will result in a reputation and eventually molds the legacy you leave behind.
Recently, people have been asking about my Frenchie, due to a re-occurrence of his cancer diagnosis. When answering people how he is, I always say; “He’s such a good person.” Then, I follow up with this: “For example, he always has a $2 bill on him and gives it to a homeless person and asks their name. Every time, they smile with delight because they feel seen and also because a $2 bill is so rare!” (By the way, they are so rare for some people that a friend who came to visit me recently who was born in another country, thought it was fake when she saw me tip a delivery person with a couple of them!)
His consistent, small acts of generosity has influenced me to always have $2 bills on hand to give to service providers or maids in hotels. It’s fun to see their face light up with an unexpected gift.
So, what small behavior can you display over and over that becomes part of your reputation and eventually your leadership legacy? Drop me a note and let me know what works for you. Or if you describe YOUR leader as amazing, what’s the evidence? Tell me, for example….
Have a great Front-Row Friday – go make an impact with a small gesture today.
Your Head Usher,
Marilyn
