Real Leaders Stand with their Troops

Ask yourself - how many leaders, be they business, community or political would fall on their sword, vs asking their troops to do the same?

When we ask those whom we lead to deal with the realities of risk, rational persuasion and legitimizing tactics just won't cut it. Leaders need to role model the character they want to see in others. Stakeholders at all levels want to know that their risk is your risk, too.

The greatest risk we face as leaders is the violation of our own team's values and beliefs. Are you fit to lead others through risk? Do you have skin in the game? Does your character increase or reduce risk? Look those you lead in the eye and you'll find your answers. Remember, whether in the military or in business, someone bears the consequence for every risk we take.