What a leader takes?

If you have ever worked for a true leader know see a change in your behavior and those around you. There are various leadership styles. But most include four actions which are identified in B.E.C.C. This is the critical difference between leaders and managers.

What is B.E.C.C.? It is Believe, Encourage, Challenge and Correct. A leader provides this to his team. I prefer not to say followers because people don’t aimlessly follow leaders. So why is this important and what does it mean? When a leader provides B.E.C.C. she or he is preparing, teaching and stretching you. Let me explain.

Believe Leaders will believe in you. They will see you potential and believe you can achieve the goals and challenges in which you face. A leader may notice your unique ability and passion more easily than other. They will display this belief in giving you assignments directly or indirectly. She or he will try to give you assignments which will align with your unique ability and passions. The leader realizes you may not be aware of them and wants you to use and grow in them.

Encourage During the assignments which may start out as minor or simple tasks, she or he will encourage you. You will receive words of encouragement and support as you undertake tasks and assignments. You may not notice at first. But it will become evident the leader is taking interest in your progress in the assignment.

Challenge The assignment you receive may be a challenge in itself. But the leader will challenge you. NO she or he will not be necessarily aggressive. Instead you will be challenged to 1) step out of your comfort zone, 2) to change your method of thinking, 3) be open to unfamiliar solutions and 4) seek resources you have never used before. More importantly the leader will challenge to ask for HELP! Yes help. This isn’t a form of weakness but a form of strength. You know where you are weak so you are smart enough to seek out those who are strong in that area.

Correct – yes the leader will correct you. It is NOT to shame you. Correction from a leader is how she or he will teach you that F.A.I.L. is your First Attempt In Learning. The leader will identify where you got off track, how to identify when you are about to get off track and how improve your overall planning and execution process. Being corrected by a leader is a learning opportunity for you! Soak it up, write it down and review it. Take in how the leader corrects you as it is a true skill!

If you have a leader in your mist who seemingly takes time to speak, chitchat or as how you are doing on a project, be open and forthcoming. She or he is probably getting to know you better in order to give you opportunities which align with your passion and unique ability.

Can you tell that I have been mentored by a leader using the B.E.C.C. method? LOL Trust and believe it is truly an experience you will appreciate for years to come.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michele Heywerd is a professional engineer by profession and she’s the lead founder of the STEM movement. She coaches young and adult professionals who want to gain successful careers in science, technology, engineering and math.

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4 Mentoring Actions A Leader Takes

What a leader takes?

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