Originally published on diojournal.com
When reflecting on successful leaders in the business, how much profit one can produce is not the only definition of reaching greatness in such a position. Younger generations who enter the job market are looking for leaders who inspire them and thrive in a job position that provides one.
As Felt and Fat CEO Nathaniel Mell puts it, actions speak louder than words, and leading by example is more powerful and influential than barking orders like an unhealthy boss. In this article, Mell dives deeper into the discussion of why it is essential for business leaders to lead by example in today’s business world and how doing so benefits an entire organization.
A Snapshot of Leading by Example
What does the image of leading by example picture? When someone chooses to lead by example, they essentially allow their actions to do all of the talking, guiding others through being a living example of how to react to life’s challenges. Leading by example is the ability to ‘walk the talk.’ It revolves around a focal point of doing good and inspiring others to follow in similar actions as the ones demonstrated, providing a path towards a common goal and similar group purpose.
According to Nathaniel Mell and what he has personally experienced as the founder and CEO of his ceramic design and manufacturing studio, to lead by example, a business owner must understand the importance of doing so and how it will benefit leadership skills in upper management. Many employees end up leaving a company due to leaders never learning how to practice proactive leadership skills.
Why Leading by Example is Important
When one is in the potion of authority, being an effective leader will not only help inspire others but allow the ability to excel in a leadership position, too. A leader who fuels positive impact and change in the workplace understands how to better guide others through actions rather than just words.
As stated by Nathaniel Mell, leading by example is living out the change that one wants to see within an organization. Doing so can single-handedly boost employee morale.
“Good leaders know how their own attitude can have a heavy influence on employees’ performance level, contentment, and attitude,” said Mell. “Leaders who lead by example are quick to gain employee trust and respect along with the will to want to do better.”
Respect and trust within the workplace between employees and upper management can overflow into how customers are treated. Happy customers mean better business, and positive work culture can create just that.
Fostering a positive workplace is crucial to ignite maximum efforts from staff. Thanks to websites like Glassdoor, a company’s workplace often is a primary piece to defining a business’ character. On Glassdoor, people can leave reviews and comments of what it is like to work in any given work environment at any company available on the website.
Leaders who choose to work alongside employees expose their positive actions more often and increase productivity. When employees see their inspirational leader being productive, it is easier for employees to get on the productive bus, too. Effective processes can be implemented through this strategy, as well.
About Nathaniel Mell
Nathaniel Mell is the founder and CEO of Felt and Fat, a ceramic design and manufacturing studio serving both professional and at-home chefs. Mell started the Philadelphia-based company in 2014 after graduating from the Tyler School of Art at Temple University and working at the world-renowned Philadelphia Clay Studio. Today, Felt and Fat has a track record of working with over 100 restaurants worldwide, producing more than 30,000 pieces annually.