As a leader I have a list of core values that guide me. They are a work in progress. Each week I’m sharing one with you in hopes that they will help you grow and excel at leading your team. The previous 3 have been:

1) Do everything you say you’re going to do.
2) Don’t treat everyone the same.
3) Never excuse or justify a failure.

My 4th Core Value is – As a leader I:

Expect my team to support each other and the company.

Remember, when you work for a company you are working towards moving their vision and culture forward. Not yours. I’m writing these posts for people who are mature enough to understand this. If you’re reading this and are someone who constantly complains about your company and its leadership. If your problems or unhappiness are b/c of them, then this probably won’t help you. It’s time for you to move on from where you are.

1) Support for the team

As a leader you just have to have a strong cohesive team. I’ve never met someone who is considered a strong leader whose team hates each other and is constantly jockeying for position. Your team will be a reflection of the qualities you are pouring into them. You’ve built the team!

You’re team has to be pulling for each other. Encouraging one another. You’ve got to jump at the first sign of someone positioning at the expense of others on the team. Don’t hear me wrong. If you’re leading a sales team I think there should be a healthy level of competition. Key word there being healthy. Your team can compete. You can set individual sales goals that reward those that are having great months. You should do these things. You cannot, however, ever allow someone with a “win at all costs” attitude. That will tear down the team, create distrust and you will have a major issue on your hands.

As a leader, your team must support each other.

2) Support for the company

I was talking to an acquaintance the other day who was telling me that the company picnic was coming up. He went on to say that the company had rented out an area of a park, was bringing in activities for the employees children, catering the event, etc. Sounded pretty nice. He then proceeded to say the following, “It’s so stupid. We’re (his family) not going. I wouldn’t give up my Saturday to spend time with the company. I mean, I’m there all week.”

Are you kidding me? You mean this company that gives you a job? Pays you? Provides your health insurance? Spends their money to provide a great event for the employees and their families? You’re not going to support that companies effort towards unity?

Enjoy your mediocre work career.

Seriously, As a leader one of my core values was that my team will support our companies events. Throwing a party? Be the first ones there. Celebrating a victory? Cheer the loudest. Serving at the local homeless shelter? Close that bad boy down!

Lead the team that is proud of each other and the company! Lead the team that is always looking for ways to support the companies efforts.