L.E.A.D.E.R.

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Marion F. Malinowski
  • 436th Medical Support Commander
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Leader; a word we hear quite often, especially in the military. What does it mean?

I am sure we all have our own preconceived definition or example of a leader; so it usually means something different to all of us. We all probably either heard of the game or even played 'follow the leader' at some point in our lives; and who was that leader? Was it the smartest of the group or the oldest? Was it the biggest or was it just the person who stepped up and said, "I'm going to lead."

Recently I was given the opportunity to be a Squadron Commander for six months. I will have to step out of my comfort zone in the pharmacy and become the leader of more individuals, responsible for more assets and definitely an increase in responsibilities. I accepted the opportunity but at the same time asked myself, "Can I do this and do it well?" Am I the smartest, oldest, biggest or is it my time to just step up and say, "I'm going to be the leader and I am confident that I will perform well."

To me the word 'leader' is an acronym for qualities one should posses to 'lead' no matter the rank, job at hand, or number of people involved; Listening, Energy, Actions, Direction, Encouragement and Respect.

Listening is something we sometimes take for granted. It is a two part process. Our ears do the first part of it for us, as a passive act, we only need to be near a sound. The second part or process is paying attention to what we hear, to be thoughtful of those who are speaking. We must hear the words, process their meaning and then provide a suitable response that reflects what was being said. We hear things all day long from subordinates, peers and bosses but it is important to truly listen to their concerns, feedback or requests so as to be able to respond effectively the way a good leader should.

Energy is the next quality needed to be an efficient leader. Having low or high energy will reflect the way those around you respond and carry out their tasks. There are leaders who, because of their lack of energy, never seem to get much accomplished. Remember to be up beat and positive, this will flow to those around you and things will get accomplished well ahead of schedule.

Third on the list is Actions. The adage 'actions speak louder than words' could not be more correct. If you perform poorly so will those around you. People tend to follow the actions of their leaders, whether in battle, on the flight line or in an office. If you perform well as a leader, those around you will notice and their actions will mimic yours. You can positively influence people by setting a good example.

Next is Direction. You must be able to give guidance and concise instructions. People look to their leader for direction and once received, they move forward to accomplish the assigned task. Incomplete or ineffective instructions will not aid in efficient completion of the task at hand. Proper guidance and instruction gives those on whom you are relying a sense of where they are going, a means to an end and a common goal.

Encouragement is important in every aspect of life. People are more effective and efficient when provided proper encouragement. A paycheck provides encouragement to do the bare minimum. An effective leader encourages others to go above and beyond in every task. Encouragement can sometimes be as simple as saying "thank you" or "good job."

Finally there is Respect. This is something that is bestowed upon us, to some degree, by the rank we hold, but it does not mean it cannot be increased or decreased. You can gain a higher degree of respect through hard work and dedication to the team. You should also show all others respect. While you may be the leader, you will not have many followers if you are disrespectful to others. Disrespect is also contagious. Your opinions of others will spread and be shared by those around you. Being respectful of everyone, regardless of rank or personal opinion, will not only improve their trust in you, but also make others more willing to perform with you and for you.

These are not words of wisdom but my road map to follow as I complete my short tour as Squadron Commander. I am glad to have been given this opportunity and I believe that if I follow my map, I can be a successful leader.