Military service instills leadership qualities in ways few other areas of life can. Real life-or-death situations, real sacrifices and real moments of courage showcase what it means to lead others through the toughest scenarios.
Of course, your bank or credit union isn’t the military. The stakes aren’t as high as they are during military service…but that doesn’t mean the stakes aren’t still high.
You are responsible for the well-being of your institution, consumers and employees. Without great leaders, your organization fails.
So, let’s develop some fantastic leadership skills. Here are five quotes from famous veterans and lessons they hold for your bank or credit union leadership training.
1. “Courage is fear holding on a minute longer.”– General George S. Patton
Leading a financial institution involves fear from time to time. Fear of industry developments. Fear of losing deposits. Fear of core conversions going awry.
But whatever the fear…don’t let it turn into panic. Wait a minute. Let your bank or credit union leadership training drive you. Act courageously. Make a plan for tackling your issues and don’t be afraid to sacrifice for real solutions.
2. “There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure.” – Secretary of State Colin Powell
Great leadership doesn’t take some magical charism. It’s born from experience and diligence. Your whole career, your bank or credit union leadership training sessions and your missteps help you lead better. Don’t forget your past – use it instead.
3. “You don’t lead by hitting people over the head – that’s assault, not leadership.” – President Dwight Eisenhower
It’s easy to hit people over the head with your vision, values or strategic initiatives. But that’s pointless. They won’t listen. Use your bank or credit union leadership training to give others ownership over your institution.
Invest the team in your objectives and clarify why their work is important. People must understand the “why” to follow you passionately. Remember: no one cares much for what they see as drone work or directives from the corporate overlords.
4. “Leadership is a two-way street, loyalty up and loyalty down. Respect for one’s superiors; care for one’s crew.” – Rear Admiral Grace Hopper
Everyone’s a leader. Yeah, it sounds hokey…but it’s true. Bank and credit union leadership training applies to every staff member, especially when it comes to respecting one another.
Eschew petty personal or political rivalries from your organization. You’re a team, and you must function like one if you’re going to succeed. Lead with integrity – up and down the ladder, from teller to CEO.
5. “No one is a leader who can’t put himself or herself in the other person’s shoes. Empathy and expertise command respect.” – Lieutenant General William Pagonis
When you’re a leader, knowledge isn’t enough. Plenty of smart people are poor leaders because they don’t understand others. Prioritize empathy in your bank or credit union leadership training. Combine your industry expertise with your people skills to move teams toward real, effectual change.
If you want more bank or credit union leadership training tips, book a free consultation to discuss On The Mark Strategies leadership training. You can choose from multiple modules and prepare yourself to win any battle that arises.
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