When it comes to fostering leadership, the best resource you have is you. The behavior you model, the goals and expectations you set, and the feedback you deliver all set the tone in the office.

Last month, I delivered a presentation at the office of one of my regular clients. The topic was Communication Dynamics which is important to leadership or the art of influence. One of the components of the presentation was communicating with integrity. Or, as Aretha Franklin said, “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me, R-E-S-P-E-C-T...” And, a lot of what we discussed kept coming back to Aretha's message. Everyone wants to be valued, appreciated, and respected.

Here are a few of the basics in our discussion.

• Treat others with courtesy. Greet people with a smile when you see them for the first time each day.

(Often accused of being Mary "F---in" Sunshine when I worked for the Federal govvernment but I figured that was better than being known as Missy Grumpy Pants.)

• Actively listen. When a co-worker comes to you with a problem or a question, put your work aside and focus on them.
o Make eye contact to demonstrate that you are paying attention to what they’re saying.
o Do not glance at email, answer the phone, or allow other interruptions to distract you.
o If this isn’t a convenient time to talk, let them know and schedule a time to meet later.

(Ooh, a tough one. I used to be the glancer who only paid attention to half of what was being said. After a few misunderstandings on the job and in my personal life, I mastered the art of active listening through much practice.)

• Be timely. Showing up for meetings early demonstrates that you recognize that everyone’s time is valuable, not just your own.

(This also falls under - People don't care how much you know. They want to know how much you care. Valuing people's time is often as important as caring for their finances.)

• Refrain from gossip. Talking negatively about your boss, co-workers, or customers shows that you condone this kind of behavior.

(And, is guaranteed to generate morale problems. This is the mortal sin of them all. NEVER, ever gossip!)

If you model these behaviors, in and out of work, everyone will follow you. You’ll be the king or queen of influence!

Come on! Sing it with me, “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me…”