LEADING BY EXAMPLE. It's both a management responsibility and a moral obligation. And, it's the most powerful tool in your leadership toolbox.

You have a strong influence on the thoughts and behaviors of your employees - probably much stronger than you think. Regardless of what appears on job descriptions or in employee handbooks, your behavior is the real performance standard that team members will follow. They'll rightfully assume that it's okay and appropriate to do whatever you do. Why wouldn't they? So it's critical that you set the proper example and desired tone.that you model the performance and behavior you expect from others. Do otherwise, and you're a hypocrite. Ouch!

There's no rocket science here - it's pretty simple stuff. Just pretend that everyone on your team is from Missouri ("The SHOW ME State"). From conduct to commitment.attendance to attitude.respect to responsibility.work ethic to ethics at work - SHOW your people what you want them to do. Let employees know that, in order to be successful, all they have to do is play a game.

The name of that game is.

"FOLLOW THE LEADER!"

Tip excerpted from LEAD RIGHT: Every Leader's Straight-Talk Guide to Job Success