Lately, many business articles and blogs have been concentrating on Leadership (Raven’s Brain, has been posting on how to be a good leader; this month’s Business 2.0 has the cover article, "Ripping Up the Rules of Management") . I would like to talk about the power of a leader during meetings. No one can stop a conversation faster than the person in the room with the most authentic power. When that person talks, everyone else stops talking and listens. They may listen because the leader has something worthwhile to say or, unfortunately, they could be listening because they fear retribution. In order to have a successful meeting, the most powerful person (or people) in the room needs to “step back” and allow the team to be empowered. Without empowerment a true partnership cannot develop. Relationships will be based on the hierarchy of each organization.
Remember, a good leader:
• Opens up communications
• Seeks to understand and resolve problems
• Builds a team