Bronze Leadership

What does it mean to be a bronze leader? As I said in yesterday’s blog I am going to add a little Olympic flair to the idea of leadership and look at what it takes to be a gold, silver and bronze leader. Today we are looking at the bronze leader. In the Olympics the difference between third and first can be a matter of hundredths of seconds or hundredths of points.

Bronze leadership isn’t bad it represents an emerging leader a leader who might make some mistakes but a leader who is working hard to be a great leader. Bronze, silver and gold leadership all represent different levels of leadership. In some parts of leadership you might be a bronze leader but in others you could be a gold leader it all depends on your reaction to the situation and your ability to lead in those situations.

What does it take to be a bronze leader?

• A bronze leader has definite leadership ability.
• A bronze leader makes mistakes but works hard at improving those mistakes.
• A bronze leader is gaining respect from those around them and receiving recognition from other leaders.
• A bronze leader is working on crafting a vision that followers can embrace.

At this year’s London Olympics Ryan Lochte a top swimmer for the USA finished third in the 200 backstroke and earned a bronze medal however in the 400IM which includes the backstroke he won the gold medal. Lochte has definite ability and is a premier swimmer but the 200 back may not be his best. Being a bronze leader requires you to do well but not perfect.

Are you a bronze leader? It is possible that you are beyond this level of leadership over the next two days we will look at silver leadership and gold leadership.