Great leaders are natural knowledge seekers. They know that new information or input can open up more opportunity for everyone. Seeking after knowledge keeps us up-to-date with the latest ideas, technologies, and innovations in our field. What we learn can help us to be more efficient or to problem solve more effectively. We might learn about new resources or people who can help us create change.
Knowledge keeps us fresh and renewed. With that comes energy and enthusiasm. In addition to these benefits, new knowledge gives us something to pass along to others. When we share what we learn, we open up the opportunity for others to flourish.
When a leader demonstrates that he or she values knowledge, that value is cultivated in others as they model that behavior. It becomes viral in a sense, enhancing the overall well-being of the organization. Everyone wins!
Technology has helped us not only to tap into new sources of information, but also to share that information faster, easier, and with less effort and expense. Collaborative virtual work environments, teleseminars, webinars, social media networks and cloud computing have facilitated the generation, sharing, and accessing of information 24/7. This has dramatically changed the way we live, work and play in the past 10 years.
Today’s leaders know that knowledge is the key to their personal and professional success. They know the value of it. They know that information, plus years of experience, plus a regular infusion of best practices is what is going to position their company ahead of the competition.
Are you a natural knowledge seeker? How has this helped you to be a better leader? What have you learned in the past year that has influenced you as a leader? What knowledge are you passing along to others?
“Leadership means setting an example. When you find yourself in a position of leadership, people follow your every move.” — Lee Iacocca
Tara Kachaturoff is the creator, producer and host of Michigan Entrepreneur TV, a weekly television talk show featuring business leaders and businesses from start-up to stellar. With over 15 years of experience in corporate finance in the tech sector, she now coaches executives, business professionals, and entrepreneurs on leadership, management, productivity, and marketing issues. Tara is also the author of 21 Qualities of a Leader from which this article is excerpted.
