Leadership – Respect & Caring

People do not care what you know, until they know that you care.  That may be a John Maxwell quote, but I have heard it from multiple sources.  Team members and followers respond better when they know that leaders genuinely care.  In addition, people respond even more positively when treated with respect.  Respect is a fundamental right that all people are entitled to.  As leaders we do not get to trample on people and forget the respect they are due as humans.  Basic caring and respect for others are great traits for true leaders.  There are many leaders who do not possess these characteristics; they may appear to be successful, and may be some of the time, but over the long haul they will not maintain loyalty.  Ultimately they will not be respected.  Our goal as leaders is to move people towards a common goal.  People tend to be more willing to move when they feel cared for and respected.  Goals are reached more easily when all members of a team respect one another, leaders and followers alike.  Make sure you lead with caring and respect…