Trying on Leadership
The 5 Simple Attributes of an Effective Leader
MTV Networks Talent Management, HR
The BEAT – June 25, 2009

What is Leadership?
- “the process of social influence in which one person can enlist the aid and support of others in the accomplishment of a common task.” M.M. Chemers (2002)
- “leadership is influence – nothing more, nothing less.” John C. Maxwell (2001)
- “the capacity to establish direction and to influence and align others toward a common goal, motivating and committing them to action and making them responsible for their performance.” BNET Business Dictionary
- “Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” Dwight D. Eisenhower

The Five Attributes (Source: The Extraordinary Leader, Zenger & Folkman)

Character
It’s The Core of Leadership
- Keeping Commitments
- Being Tenacious (Never Give Up!)
- Treating Everyone With Respect (Regardless of Level)
- Constantly Learning
- Looking Out For The Team!
Why Is This Attribute So Critical?

Personal Capability
Highly Developed Knowledge, Skills and Competencies
- Technical Knowledge
- Professionalism
- Problem Solving Abilities
- Product Knowledge
- Innovation
- Initiative

Focus on Results
It’s About Getting the Job Done
- Demonstrates Responsibility and Accountability For Tasks/Projects
- Brings New Ideas To The Table
- Can Be Counted On To Deliver Assignments On Time
- Pays Attention To Detail
- Produces High Quality Work
- Sets The Bar High Every Time

Interpersonal Skills
Working Successfully With Others
- Builds positive relationships and sustains them over time
- Responds positively to feedback
- Is interested in listening to what other people have to say (even when there is a difference of opinion)
- Communicates well verbally or in writing (e.g., presentations, reports, emails, etc.)
- Inspires other people to do their best work (even in difficult situations)

Supporting Organizational Change
Change Happens, So Deal With It!
- Has the ability to get in line with the new direction or situation
- Can see the big picture, thinks beyond their day-to-day responsibilities
- Uses the change event as an opportunity to learn new skills or raise visibility

How Do I Use The 5 Attributes To My Advantage?
Putting It Into Practice

Learn From Those Who Do It Well
- Ask Questions
- Watch (What Good Leaders Do) and Listen (To What They Say and How They Say It)
- Solicit Feedback
- Get In Touch With “The Culture”
- How Are Things Done Around Here?

Some Practical Suggestions
- Do your current role well
- Notice what needs to be done and do it
- Communicate your aspirations to your Supervisor
- Set clear timeframes/milestones for your development
- Start Small
- Excel at Something
- Build on Your Strengths
- Remedy Fatal Flaws
- Identify Mentors
- Form Supportive Networks
- Find Training Opportunities
- Volunteer For Projects
- Set Up Informal Interviews
- Build Your Brand at MTV Networks

Some Potential Pitfalls
- Assuming Time in Role Means Promotion
- Confusing Working Hard vs. Working Smart and Achieving Goals
- Failing to Consider Your department’s strategy/key priorities, The structure of your group, The budget constraints

Typing It ALL Together
- Achieve Results Over Time to Build your Reputation!
- Demonstrate the Five Leadership Attributes With Your Manager, Coworkers and Clients!
- Stick to Your Action Plan!