The most persuasive leadership skill is the personal example of the leader. A good leader sets a positive example in these ways:
1. Following instructions. Following
instructions, obeying the law, and carrying out tasks in the recommended manner
points out that rules and procedures are
important.
2. Trying hard. The leader must work as
hard as if not harder than any member of the group. Leadership by direction is not as
effective as leadership by example.
3. Showing initiative. A good leader must
do what has to be done without waiting to be told or forced to act. An effective
leader respects the good suggestions of the group members and encourages each
person to show initiative.
4. Acting with maturity. An effective
leader shows good judgment. The
group members see that the leader's personal behavior is directed toward
accomplishing the task.
5. Knowing the job. Generally, a leader
should have a mastery of the skills to be used. If not, the leader must apply the
resources of the group toward achieving the
task.
6. Keeping a positive attitude. A positive
attitude is vital as an example to group members. The leader's personal frustration or
discouragement should never be apparent.
Failure should be considered a potential learning experience. Enthusiasm
is contagious.
7. Role models are an important method in Boy Scouting. This applies not only to adults, but also to youth leaders. Boys often will copy the actions and behavior of leaders they like and admire. Boys will literally walk, talk, and act as the example set by the adult and youth leaders of the troop.