Four Lessons In Bringing Forth Leadership

1. The model of being 70% ready and have 70% consensus would be appropriate for larger projects that involve the specific library location or the entirety of the library system, such as implementing new PC’s or gearing up for summer reading programming. As many of our classmates have stated, it’s virtually impossible to be 100% prepared for any situation since you have to account for any sticky circumstances to appear. As an example, for the just-passed summer reading program at the system I work for, they implemented a new software that was not completely ready due to technical issues, lack of complete training, and the absence of time to really prepare before the launch. As a whole, the staff knew what they had to do and the basics of getting …show more content…
87). Quite frankly, these lessons are highly applicable for leaders in the library. The first lesson, meet the troops, emphasizes acknowledging the individuals that will be involved. “The leader needs to have strong people skills and the ability to work well with others, and the leader needs to be able to adapt personal skills to the environment in which he or she works” (Prentice, 2010, p. 38). The second lesson, make decisions, is applicable in every workforce, although Useem puts emphasis on corporate boardroom or executive suite scenarios. Whether the decision is putting in a new acquisition for the collection despite complaints or dealing with an inebriated patron in the library, decisions must be made despite the difficulties occurring. The third lesson, focus on mission, puts a stronger focus on teamwork and bolster relationships with one another to ensure successful library service. It’s highly expected to be working with other individuals, who may or may not always be in agreement, in order to accomplish the mission and vision of the library. Prentice (2013) states that a leader who connects with everyone involved “has the opportunity to identify strengths and weaknesses, see where problems exist, and to make changes that will make the organization a better place…” (p. 39). The final aspect, convey strategic plan, is a lesson that will always need improvement among the various leaders. Useem (2010) states the fourth lesson means “make the objectives clear, but avoid micromanaging those who will execute on them” (p. 89). Unfortunately, there are individuals in leadership positions that are unable to prevent themselves from micromanaging, thus developing a lack of trust among