Friday Free-For-All

I was honored to listen to a webcast with Ken Blanchard, founder of Lead Like Jesus and The Ken Blanchard Companies, and author of more than 35 books. I’ve been following Mr. Blanchard for a few years now, have read several of his books and was thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from him directly.

The webcast was an hour long inspiration, entitled Leading in Uncertain Times. It focused on 3 keys to moving forward and making the most of the economic difficulties and changes we face today. Ken’s focus for leaders included being a bearer of hope, treating others as business partners and being a servant leader.

Ken said he “ran into Jesus” later in his life at the age of 50 and realized what he had been teaching leaders and employees were principles he found directly in the Bible, used by Jesus while leading His disciples. He went on to say that by being open but hopeful, leaders can help others to be fear-less and “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not our own understanding. Pvb 3:5. A great verse to meditate on for sure!

Treating others as business partners allows those you lead to feel part of the process and decision because they are kept informed and included. By sharing with others, being clear on goals and direction, and looking forward employees will learn to make good decisions even when leaders aren’t there because they know the leaders are counting on and trust them.

Finally Ken Blanchard talked extensively about being a servant leader. As a leader, even if it is only of our own home, you need to provide vision and direction and be willing and wanting to serve others.  Doing this consistently takes hard work and “staying attached to the vine” helps even the best leaders from letting ego and pride step in and direct their actions.

While answering questions Ken suggested building a solid foundation through solitude, prayer, studying scripture, knowing and trusting God’s love, and having a strong support system to grow your faith, strength and effectiveness as a leader. He provided engaging stories from his own life, personal and professional and his walk with Jesus that made the webinar enjoyable and very powerful.

It was an inspirational message and reminder for all, not just leaders. Everyone can use these keys and follow the example of Jesus in our professional and personal lives to help ourselves in these hard times by helping others first. They can be used in any size company, in volunteer environments, school and academic settings, home, or with friends. Being truthful, inclusive and having a servant heart are vital in leading productively and as Jesus did. It was a wonderful presentation and one I hope will be the first in more to come.