Reputation builds influence. The better our reputation, the more sway (and respect) we will have. In leadership, a solid reputation is absolutely essential. Building a reputation starts when you’re hired, but it will always follow you whether you change careers or rise to the top. Building a reputation doesn’t happen on its own, either. For us to shape a good reputation in the workplace and in leadership, it takes conscious, consistent effort.
Having the trust and respect of your colleagues is going to reduce stress and facilitate career growth. You’ll be better equipped and enabled to reach your goals rather than creating roadblocks and resistance.
But how do professionals — particularly leaders — establish a good reputation?
Here are my top tips.
7 Ways to Build a Great Reputation in Leadership
1) You practice what you preach.
No one likes a hypocrite. If you’re going to be a thought leader (or any kind of leader, for that matter), you have to practice what you preach. Are you telling someone what you would actually do, or just what they want to hear? As leaders, we have to be willing to put our money where our mouths are. Just as an example, the leaders and employees over at our family business, Memphis Invest, invest in the very same real estate opportunities that we offer to investors.
This demonstrates confidence in our properties, services, and ability to build wealth.
No matter what you do, demonstrate your expertise and knowledge by actually doing what you tell others to do. It shows that you really do know what you’re talking about and you’re willing to follow-through. Your knowledge isn’t based on theory and conjecture but real results.
2) You share information.
Our world moves fast. Information moves faster. Part of being a good leader is being transparent and generous with information. While this doesn’t mean everyone at every level needs to know everything, it does mean that you share information that you believe will be beneficial for others — whether in making a big decision or in completing their day-to-day tasks. Be forthcoming. Great leaders aren’t afraid of having credit stolen or seeing others succeed. They give others the tools to achieve the highest level of work.
3) You demonstrate initiative.
There’s a model of leadership that focuses on servanthood. (Ie. servant leaders). As leaders, we should not come to expect to tell others what to do without doing the same things ourselves. We’re willing to step up to the plate, get our hands dirty, and do the hard work. You do it unprompted. You do it because it needs doing. You volunteer, you notice, and you do.
Initiative goes a long way, especially when you take up the hard and undesirable tasks.
4) You show tact.
Feedback is important. When you’re in a position of leadership, this is especially true. However, we have to be able to deliver feedback — even criticism — in a way that is not hostile or demeaning. Let your opinions and critiques be tactful and constructive. There’s no room for needless criticism. Be honest, but be actionable. The people you critique should leave feeling motivated and encouraged to do better, not discouraged or resentful.
5) You build others up.
I mentioned that leaders aren’t afraid of the success of others. It’s true! A leader should want to see their colleagues and employees succeed — even if that success doesn’t always involve or benefit you. Be willing to encourage others in their ventures. This isn’t to say be a yesman, but it does mean you celebrate with them and create spaces where their potential is nurtured.
6) You value integrity.
If you don’t have integrity, you don’t have much of anything. Doing business honestly is becoming a rare thing in our world. Being trustworthy — and being known for it — is worth its weight in gold. As a leader, build your reputation as that of someone unwilling to compromise their principles for profit. Instead, dedicate yourself to serving well and taking responsibility.
7) You are reliable and consistent.
You know what they say — consistency is key. Really, though: if you want a great reputation, practice reliability. When you say you’re going to do something, you do it. No excuses. You simply are reliable. Whether that means being consistently on-time, producing quality work, or just being reachable, these qualities matter in leadership. They set an example and they encourage others to come to you and trust your word and work.
Who do you know that has an outstanding reputation? What qualities do they demonstrate? Share your observations in the comments.