In his book, The Art of the Leader, William A. Cohen says, “If you want to get promoted, you have to be a leader first. Then someone will promote you.” At first glance, that doesn’t seem right. How can you show leadership if you don’t have any followers? The real answer is you have to become a follower before you can become a leader. It is only after you have mastered being a follower that you are worthy to be a leader.
Another trait of high achievers and successful leaders is being teachable. Not only do great leaders start off as followers, they diligently listen and learn from others. They are teachable, trainable, and coachable.
Moses, one of the greatest leaders of all time, after leading the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt, was coachable. He listened to his father-in-law Jethro when he suggested he select capable men and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens. Moses, a prince of Egypt, an adopted son of the pharaohs daughter, became the ruler of the Israelite nation, and yet he listened and learned from the advice of Jethro. Even at the height of his power, he never stopped learning. His teach-ability had become a cornerstone of his character.
When I started my marketing company, I had very little knowledge of the industry, so I have read everything I can about how to be successful in the industry. Probably more important is to ask and learn from people already successful in the industry. Learn and apply what you are taught. Find a coach or a mentor if you want to shorten the learning curve. It is true that you only get promoted after following and helping others get what they want. Zig Ziglar said, “If you can dream it, then you can achieve it. You will get all you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want.“
I have learned that high achievers and leaders that progress the fastest are the most teachable and coachable. Most have had a mentor or coach that has worked with them. You only become a leader after being a follower. To become a great leader, you have to be teachable, trainable, and coachable.
Have an awesome day.
