Feature Article
which good is accomplished. Be in that five percent.
Step 6. Observe, Listen and Build Consensus
The Atlanta Bar just celebrated its 125th Anniversary. Unlike
the State Bar of Georgia, which has mandatory attendance,
the Atlanta Bar is purely voluntary. It would not have grown
into what it is today if it had not done most things right. Good
leaders recognize that they are merely cogs in a much larger
machine with a prestigious history. Does the Bar need to
make changes in a number of areas? Absolutely. Frequently,
however, things are done in a certain manner for a good
reason. Before pointing out what does indeed need to be
changed, solicit opinions about the status quo and how it got
that way. Doing so will help build consensus for improvement.
Being thoughtful and respectful builds credibility. Leaders
need credibility before change can be achieved.
“
Step 7. Lead by Doing the Hard Work
We have all heard that good
leaders are good managers
and delegate tasks to
others. True, but good
leaders work hard and don’t
shove downstream that
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