This is a guest blog by Steven Armstrong
This is a checklist of seven simple shifts that can lead to exponential gains and make you a better engineering leader. To gain the most benefit: Print it, post it, and do at least one action each day.
- Take the time to say good morning to someone and thank them for coming in.
- Ask someone for their opinion on something and listen to what they have to say.
- Ask someone what is happening in their lives outside of work.
- Discuss what is happening in the larger organization to keep people connected to the big picture and the higher purpose of their work.
- Write a personal thank-you note to a team member or colleague.
- Make rounds to stay in touch and talk about your expectations so your team knows what matters.
- Take the time to pursue or read something to enhance your leadership.
Attracting people who’ll believe and trust you doesn’t happen overnight. You have to stick with it and be willing to continually learn how to be a better engineering leader. Sincere and simple leadership actions draw people’s attention and are the most effective tactics for generating trust and engaging team members.
We become what we repeatedly do. ~ Sean Covey
About the Author
For more than three decades, Steven Armstrong worked around the world as a member of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Red Cross. On the literal frontlines for many of the globe’s most notable humanitarian crises during that time – ranging from the shores of Sri Lanka after the 2004 tsunami, to the aftermath of 9/11 in New York, to fighting wildfires in Fort McMurray in 2016 – Steve has proven, over and over again, what true leadership means.
Faced with complex missions and tasks that required extreme precision and unfailing resolve, Steve learned early on that properly inspiring his teams to act, move, and overcome obstacles would be the key to ongoing success. Rather than force compliance, he used his natural virtue, honor, and trustworthiness to motivate people. This exceedingly “human” side of his character enabled authentic connections and trust – instilling confidence, determination, and encouragement in all who followed his examples.
Now, as a speaker, consultant and author of You Can’t Lead From Behind, Steve uses humor, honesty, and a lifetime of hard-learned lessons to tell his story and teach others how to become better and more effective leaders. Though his experience is global, his approach is down-to-earth and genuine, giving you and your leadership team the personalized tools and confidence they need to succeed.
I hope you enjoyed this week’s post by guest author Steven Armstrong. If you’re interested in your firm possibly joining the Civil Engineering Collective, please contact us here or call us at 800-920-4007.
I hope you’ll join us.
Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success
