A “good to great” perspective on leading by example.

At Good to Great last week, we focused on coaching the power of perspective. This led to excellent discussion about the pros and cons of leading from the front.

We agreed that leading from the front includes setting an example, showing rather than telling, and being willing to do the hard work and make difficult decisions. All must haves for hospitality leaders at any level.

These are our five main takeaways to effectively use this approach:

1. Demonstrate the qualities you want, not the skills. 

If you want your team to work hard and be nice to people, work hard and be nice to people. They’re not looking for the person who can carry the most plates or make the perfect Mojito. Even the most celebrated chef should recognise who has more skill in certain areas. Your job isn’t to be the best at everything – it’s to set the standard for how things are done.

2. Don’t get in the way of people already doing a good job. 

Autonomy is a powerful motivator, while stepping in too often can undermine their confidence and slow them down. Leading from the front is about inspiring, not interfering. If someone on your team is already doing a great job, let them get on with it.

3. Don’t overdo it.

Leading from the front is not micromanaging. Constantly jumping in to “show how it’s done,” risks demotivating those who already know. Consider when to step in and when to step back – it’s a balancing act that’s well worth getting right.

4. Avoid becoming pious about leading from the front.

Assuming your way is “the way” can grate on colleagues with other leadership styles. Different situations call for different approaches, so keep an open mind and respect the strengths of others. Leading from the front is about setting an example, not preaching from a pedestal.

5. Lead from the middle and back too.

The further back you are, the more you can see. Leading from the middle means working alongside your team, helping them stay on track. Leading from the back means stepping back to see the bigger picture, which helps you spot challenges early and make better decisions.

Good to Great runs six times a year in London, and is now running twice a year in Glasgow, Manchester and Bristol.