Leaders today are facing an ever-increasing number of complex scenarios that demand their attention. In the fast-paced world of business, the conveyor belt of challenges never stops moving, and no two situations are ever the same.
But for effective leaders, this is just another day at the office. They possess the ability to quickly assess the situation and give themselves the right instructions for success. They are skilled at thinking on their feet and making split-second decisions that can make all the difference. These instructions that they give themselves are the Mindset, and combined with their Talents, or natural abilities, they have become superheroes of the business world.
As a leader, when you grasp and harness your Top Talents, coupled with the appropriate Mindset - which can change through continuous learning and growth - you are empowered to steer the situation towards success with ease.
5 Talent Categories from the Management Talent Assessment
When it comes to exceptional leadership, it's often the case that those who excel possess inherent strengths in the five distinct Talent categories from the Management Talent Assessment (MTA), each complemented by a specific mindset:
- Drives & Values: a NEVER-GIVE-UP Mindset
- Work Style: an ACTION-ORIENTED Mindset
- People Acumen: a PEOPLE-FIRST Mindset
- Influence: a TAKE-CHARGE Mindset
- Thought Process: a BIG PICTURE Mindset
Overall, understanding and utilizing both your natural talents and a growth-oriented mindset can greatly enhance your effectiveness as a leader.
Let’s discuss how you can maximize your leadership to bring out the best in yourself and others, by digging into each of the Mindset categories.
NEVER-GIVE-UP Mindset
The NEVER-GIVE-UP mindset is complemented by the Drives and values categories on the MTA, specifically Purpose and Productivity. It is defined by persevering towards your aspirations with a steadfast commitment to excellence and doing things the right way.
They are fueled by a relentless desire to achieve and progress, and they inspire others through a strong sense of purpose and a well-defined mission. These leaders hold themselves accountable by tracking their personal, team, and overall organizational achievements.
When considering the Never-Give-Up Mindset, certain words may come to mind that conjure up images of a servant leader. One who is unwavering in their determination to succeed and lead others along a path of success. They weather the storm and hold themselves and others accountable along the way.
ACTION-ORIENTED Mindset
The next Mindset, couples with Work Style and the themes of Work Intensity and Achiever. Being ACTION-ORIENTED is characterized by taking decisive action and leading with unwavering energy.
These goal-driven trailblazers not only lead by example, but they inspire their team to take bold and decisive action towards achieving their objectives. They infuse their team with a sense of urgency and determination to succeed, leaving no stone unturned in their quest for excellence.
Leaders activating the ACTION-ORIENTED Mindset coupled with Work Intensity and high Achiever talent, forge ahead in a proactive manner, leading their time with decisiveness and energy. They default to action and bring about the energy and resources necessary for those around them to do to the same.
PEOPLE-FIRST Mindset
Have you ever been around a leader who has never met a stranger and has the uncanny ability to put the right people and resources in the right place at the right time? That is the People Acumen themes hard at work, and they are usually know for their ability to build and develop a strong team.
Initiating and tuning in to the PEOPLE-FIRST Mindset, leaders invest their time to cultivate personal connections and foster growth, while demonstrating a genuine concern for their people. Their strong communication skills, openness, and inclusive approach create a sense of trust among clients and team members alike.
Rallying around a common goal and cause, even in the face of extreme pressure can be achieved with a PEOPLE-FIRST Mindset. Relationships are strong when they are authentic and built on trust, and outputs will be a direct reflection of this work.
TAKE-CHARGE Mindset
When leading others, it is always important to have the ability to influence, and we define this in the Talent Themes of Persuasion and Command. Taking risks and pushing forth with conviction and authority, sets the stage for bold and audacious goals and outcomes.
With a powerful TAKE-CHARGE mindset that rallies teams and propels them towards success, great leaders demonstrate decisiveness by laying out a clear vision and sharing their unwavering convictions. Their infectious inspiration motivates others to follow their lead, pushing them to exceed their own expectations and achieve what they once thought impossible.
When we say that leaders are “rallying the troops” or “leading them into battle,” it is often due to them using a TAKE-CHARGE mindset. Their team believes in them and trusts that they will come out victorious, which is an unparalleled skill when working in uncertain conditions or those that re constantly changing.
BIG-PICTURE Mindset
When you think of someone who is able to see the Big Picture, it most likely brings to mind that person who doesn’t get caught in the weeds or sweat the small stuff. It is all about the Thought Process and centers around the Talents of Business Acumen and Agility. When you need to get something done with lots of moving pieces and twists and turns, it calls for the BIG-PICTURE Mindset.
This strategic mindset enables leaders to make sound business decisions and navigate potential obstacles setting the bar high for success by carefully considering all variables before setting a clear direction. By building a compelling case and effectively communicating their vision, they inspire buy-in from their team. Continuously assessing progress, they remain open to change and course correction to ensure the achievement of their goals.
The BIG-PICTURE Mindset allows leaders to nimbly guide their people using their own curiosity and adaptability to concur issues as they arise and deal with the ever-changing business landscapes they face.
Putting the Leadership Mindset into Play
Unlike innate talent, your mindset can change over time. By consistently seeking opportunities for growth and maintaining focused attention, you have the power to positively influence your mindset, ultimately driving your success forward.
Remember, Mindset is the instructions you give to yourself. So, ask yourself three key questions that will help you focus on the outcomes you desire:
1. What do you want to be known for?
2. What instructions will you give yourself?
3. What impact will it have on performance?
Once you have answered these questions, you can then put the Leadership Mindset concept into play.
In the end, the most effective leaders are those who remain focused, determined, and committed to finding the best solutions, no matter what challenges come their way. With practice and experience, you, too, can become a superhero of the business world.
*This blog was originally featured in the Talent Magazine.
