Relevant Leadership #6

Relevant Leadership = Relevant Presence
By Kenton Lee

What happens when people say “The boss is coming!”? Usually, employees stop doing what they are doing and start working. They are nervous when the boss is around. They aren’t themselves. Employees act differently when they are in the presence of their superior.

So what would a relevant presence look like? Relevant presence is completely different than the common perception of what happens when the boss is around. Relevant presence is a kind of presence that people desire; people actually want you to be around. It is the presence that brings inspiration and motivation. It is the kind of presence that encourages and guides.

A leader’s relevant presence is something that adds to the team and enhances the efforts of those around you. Not something that is fearful, but something that is fun. Not something that is annoying, but something that is attractive. Not something that is meaningless, but something that is impactful. That is a relevant presence: but how do you get there?

1. The first step to relevant presence is relationships. If you have a relevant relationship with someone, then they will value your presence. In fact, the value is your presence. They appreciate your presence because they appreciate your relationship with them.

2. The second step to relevant presence is purpose. What is your purpose for being around your team? Is it always for negative reasons? Does something bad always happen when you are around? If you change the purpose of your presence, then you will change the reaction to your presence. Your team will like to have you around much more when you come and share good news, encourage them, inspire them, and help and serve them.

3. The third step to relevant presence is impact. Good things happen when you are around. Your presence brings inspiration, encouragement, and smiles. Your presence needs to have a positive impact on people in order to be relevant.

Relevant Presence: Where your followers actually want you to be around…

What do you think the people around you think when you are around?
What kind of presence do you bring when you are with your team?

How can you have a more relevant presence with the people around you?

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Kenton Lee works with student leaders on a daily basis and is committed to helping them be relevant in all areas of life. Got a question for Kenton? Email him.