The Impartial Leader

If you have more than one child, you would likely say you love them all. But which one do you indulge more? Not sure? Ask your children. They know.

If you’re leading a team of people, which one do you favor more? Not sure? Ask your team. They know.

This is true for CEOs, Entrepreneurs, Coaches, Parents, Pastors, and even Sunday School teachers.

No matter how hard you try, it’s difficult not to show favoritism of one over others. There is always one that has more talent or energy or passion or influence or good looks or produces the best results or simply makes you feel good.

Each one of us is naturally biased. Family backgrounds, culture, learning environments and experience heavily influence the way we think and the decisions we make.

However, when it comes to leadership, the value of impartiality can be learned.

As a differentiating value, impartiality means fairness; showing lack of favoritism; or unprejudiced. You don’t have to study law or become a judge to acquire this value. You just need to observe other leaders (good and bad) and practice being impartial.

An impartial leader:

• Focuses on making good decisions that benefit everyone, not just a few.
• Is concerned with doing what’s right, not what’s popular.
• Treats each person differently, according to their needs, but always as equally important.
• Accepts that some will view their decisions as unfair or disappointing.
• Follows a stated process, not the whims of a few.
• Listens carefully to distinguish facts vs. fiction.
• Is self aware to watch for potential discrimination and dishonesty.
• Moves forward with confidence without worrying what others think.

Note: do NOT confuse being impartial with being indifferent.

Great leaders truly care about those they lead. They always have the best interest of everyone at heart. That’s why remaining impartial is so important. Such leaders can move their team forward faster and farther when favoritism and prejudices are removed.

 

Do you know an impartial leader? What’s their secret?

 

Today’s value was selected from the “Fairness-Respect” category, based on the e-book Developing Your Differentiating Values.