Three "T’s" of Leadership Success

In my leadership coaching, I am often reminded of how important the three “T’s” of leadership are to long term success. It seems that I address one or all of these traits on a daily basis.

You need to consider these skills and incorporate them into your persona. We both know that they are there within you. You just need to be able to pull them up to their highest level. Be aware of each trait, practice perfection and ultimately they will be recognized assets that you naturally bring to the tables of both your professional and personal life.

It should be no surprise to anyone that the first “T” is Trust. Leaders must be trusted, trustworthy and create trust-based environments. Trust is the basis of all good business relationships. You must be a person that others can go to and know without a doubt that that they have entered a safe space. People need to know that they can share confidence with you; that you will listen to them without judgment and that you will not react to what they are saying until they are completely finished. You need to show them that they have been understood and when you do respond, your response will be fair. Leaders must be trustworthy. Trusted leaders must also be true to their word. When you say you are going to do something; Do it!

The second “T” is Truth

Leaders must always speak their truth. Speaking your truth does not mean in any way that you need to give away corporate information or secrets. It simply means that you must always be truthful and at times that truth may be that you are just not at liberty to discuss certain situations. Be authentic. Don’t pretend to be someone you are not. Let people see you for the honest and caring person that you are. When you are wrong or make a mistake, fess up, admit it and offer a constructive solution. Remember that truth is critical regardless of your position or title.

The third “T” is Tact. When you base yourself in an environment of trust and truth you must be masterfully tactful. As a leader you must have a great sense of what you say and its impact on others. Sharing your truth with others must never have a detrimental impact on your good relationship with others. Consider what and how you ask questions, give responses and deliver assignments to assure that you are not offending the recipient. Find some you know and trust to be your “tact” barometer.

The three “T’s” addresses in this article can be considered the cornerstone of your leadership success. Know that these skills are all within you; be sure to take time to bring them to the top of your leadership personality.