The Lifelong Learner :: Do what you can, with what you have, where you are -Roosevelt ::

I admire leaders that speak the truth, speak from the heart, and that are open (candor). If you are like that, you will earn credidibility. But why do you need credibility?

“Credibility is a leader’s currency. With it he or she solvent; without it he or she is bankrupt.” That’s a quote from the latest Leadership Wired newsletter. In it, John Maxwell offers four keys to establishing leadership crediblity

1) Speak the truth.Be honest and upfront. Transparency breeds legitimacy—make it a priority to be open with financial statements, policies, and decision-making rationale.

2) Don’t hide bad news.

3) Never over-promise.Do not make promises you cannot keep. Why do you think politicians have such a poor reputation? It’s very simple. They promise the world and seldom deliver.

4) Do what you say you will do.Follow up and follow through.

Simple and to the point. I really like that. Most of all, if you want to be a leader, be an authentic leader.

ReferenceCredible Communication, Leadership Wired Newsletter, April 2005 — read my previus recommendation