There is a stark difference between the reactive and the proactive leader. More often than not reactive leaders are in a state of constant activity striving to achieve business goals to the best of their abilities. On the other hand, proactive leaders lean more towards championing organizational missions and achieve goals with greater ease. While reactive leaders are known to deal with events as they come, proactive leaders anticipate events and plan accordingly. Being proactive not only simplifies leadership but also increases positive results and encourages a more harmonious workplace.
The business benefits of being proactive are undeniable. Here’s is how you can make ‘being proactive’ a part of your DNA:
1. Slow down
Most people are so driven towards short-term targets and successes that they fail to keep the bigger picture in mind while making bold decisions. As a leader, one needs to slow down and take a step back, access the long-term plan and then take necessary steps that will help you achieve that bigger picture. Sometimes one needs to stop doing and start thinking. Even if the situation requires you to speed up, take a minute to study the pros and cons and prepare for the worst-case scenario to avoid being blindsided in the longer run. Slowing down gives you mind space, an overview of the situation at hand and time to cultivate a plan of action with proper responsibilities, accurate yet achievable timelines and unique ways of communication.
2. Plan ahead
According to a famous Chinese saying, your plans might fail, but planning ahead never does. You can only control how you react to a situation, not the situation itself. This is where planning in advance comes to use. Taking a proactive stance helps you face reality and mentally prepares you for the worst-case scenario. Carefully study all possibilities along with their pros and cons. One should analyze the situation in advance, calculate the risk and make a foolproof salvation plan.
3. Keep everyone in the loop
Manage your team well, keep them informed and share all your predictions with your employees so as to mentally prepare them and help them brace for impact.
4. Exude confidence in hard times
A smart leader always gets excited during changes rather than being terrified of them. They plan ahead and are always ready to pounce on whatever situation that might come their way. Keep a calm and confident approach during the difficult times when your competitors might be crumbling under the stress of survival. Exuding confidence makes everyone from your employees to investors believe that you have what it takes to survive and assures them that their future and money is safe.
Being proactive is a critical skill when it comes to the success of a business. Therefore, leaders who wish to make a lasting impact on their organization should strive for proactive, rather than reactive leadership.
At The Taplow Group, through our professional Executive Search Process, we help you source leaders who have a proven track record of proactively leading businesses towards excellence.
To know more about our services like leadership consulting, professional executive search, management consulting, visit www.TaplowGroup.com.