E-couragement: Where Engaging Leaders Park

I didn’t notice anything unusual as I pulled into the parking lot of Mark E. Hyman, DDS. My goal was to simply drop off twenty autographed copies of Your Employees Have Quit-They Just Haven’t Left that Mark had purchased for his staff. It struck me as I sauntered back towards my car that Mark is the owner of this business; he’s the President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board all wrapped into one. He understands the impact of his actions and I couldn’t help but smile with pleasure as I observed where his car was parked.

What you do always trumps what you say – this is not a complicated concept. I’ve heard leaders exclaim many times, “Rich, I’ve told my people over and over again and they just don’t seem to get it.” Perhaps it’s because they’re watching more than listening. Mark Hyman’s daily decision to park a long way from the front entrance of his business is more meaningful than weekly lectures on patient care. His actions are more powerful than an eloquently worded policy manual. His message couldn’t be any clearer—we’re here to serve and care for our patients, and that starts at the top.

Every day engaging leaders disclose beliefs and philosophies to teams and customers through their actions. Saint Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words only when necessary.” Your small actions let your followers and customers know where they rank in your world. What you do is your most impactful mode of communication. Your behavior is modeled, not your speeches. Mark Hyman and other engaging leaders provide an inspiring role model. Where do you park?

Leave your comments: What important message do you communicate to your team and customers through action?