Leadership Gifts
T’is the gift giving season, once again. As a leader, you might skip the shopping list and consider giving the leadership gifts you already have.
Here’s a list of my top 10. Feel free to add your own.
- Time
- Undivided attention
- Appreciation
- Advice
- Support
- Engaged listening
- Understanding
- Connections
- Caring
- Consideration
Next, make a list of people to whom you want to give. Then, take a step back and think about each person. Take your time. Be thoughtful and generous. One of the best parts of receiving a gift, is knowing the giver really sees who you are and what you will appreciate most. That, in and of itself, is a gift.
What to Give
Begin with the person who’s easiest for you. Sandra has already told you what she wants.
On several occasions, including your most recent one on one, she mentioned never having had a mentor. You can readily give Sandra the leadership gifts of your attention, understanding, engaged listening and connections. Send her a gift wrapped note inviting her to a 45-minute meeting with only one agenda item. “Let’s find you a mentor.”
From there, ideas about what to give others flow freely.
The sales organization has had its most challenging year ever. New products were delayed 9 months. Facing angry customers and cancelled sales has been tough on everyone. Richard, your SVP of global sales, has worked tirelessly to support the extended sales team. How about inviting Richard to a special Appreciation Dinner? Maybe he’d like to bring his plus one. Pen your invitation to Richard. Wrap it in a gift box and put a bow on top.
Charlotte devotes three hours a month to serving meals at a shelter for homeless families. How would she feel if you offered to join her for an hour, maybe more?
Before you consider the next person on your list, do a quick check in, a body scan perhaps. Pay attention to your heart. You might just find a smile there. It’s the giver’s gift. Enjoy it.
Dave is next on your list, but you don’t know what he wants. No problem. You can use your Leadership Gifts Card to give Dave the gift of time. Place the handwritten gift card in a box and call it a wrap. Dave is free to use the time however he wants, including washing his car on a beautiful Saturday morning. The story will become part of your legacy – the CEO who gave the best leadership gifts ever.
May you enjoy a Happy Merry Holiday Season and a heart that smiles with the gift of giving.
You might take a peek at these two articles about a year of not shopping and how Generous Leadership Works Better.