Lessons in leadership by U.S. presidents

In January, we will witness the inauguration of U.S. President four years. History tells us that the ideas, perspectives and decisions of any president to make a difference. Or if you do not agree with their policies and political beliefs, their leadership skills and styles have helped each other to achieve success.

Effective leadership is not only essential for leading a country, but it is also essential to guide an organization, a department, team or project. Consider what we can learn from some of our more recent presidents.

Effective leaders act as a core of values. George W. Bush is immersed in its morality and religious values. They have an impact on how they see the world. If a person is in agreement or disagreement with its decisions, there is no doubt about where he stands on a particular issue. The clarity of its values ​​helps to compensate for what some believe to be low achievers in public speaking.

Question: How are you certain that your colleagues have a clear understanding about your core values ​​as a leader?

Effective leaders know how to "connect with people." Bill Clinton has had a unique sensitivity to the emotions of others. This allowed him to establish great loyalty. Since he does not govern in a pure ideological, this ability has allowed him to keep supporters on his side, even when he was signing bills for which they strongly disagree. There is no doubt that its true believers would have created strident opposition, if the invoices themselves were initiated, supported and signed by other presidents.

Question: What have you done to better understand the motivations of others, in order to create a sense of loyalty within your sphere of influence?

Effective leaders know how to win the trust of others. George H.W. Bush (41) has worked tirelessly as a war President in removing Iraq from Kuwait. President Bush announced with great skill on television. However, his story of personal integrity enabled him to achieve his goal of forming a strong coalition through its diplomats as well as his own one-on-one conversations with other world leaders.

Question: How do others respond when asked to comment on your reliability and integrity?

Effective leaders convey a clear and stimulating. Early in his presidency, Ronald Reagan described his vision for America as "a shining city on a hill." This framed picture is a clear difference between America and Russia in the "cold war" battles. His words increased levels of confidence and optimism in a difficult time in American history. He was not called "The Great Communicator" for nothing.

Question: How effective is interested in inspiring others to overcome obstacles during difficult times?

Effective leaders are persistent in the pursuit of goals. Jimmy Carter demonstrated intensity and commitment in its efforts to bring peace in the Middle East. He was able to encourage Menachim Begin and Anwar Sadat to find an agreement that laid the foundations for peace, after a ten-year period of hostilities between Israel and Egypt. This agreement has successfully brought a Nobel Prize for peace for each of them.

Question: How do you manage to obtain a commitment from others in your effort to achieve pre-determined priorities?

Leadership requires the ability to adapt to changing situations. Gerry Ford did not want or should be the President of the United States. However, history reveals that he has done a commendable job in a short time when he was pushed into position. Those who knew him well always considered him a leader. We had learned that the Democratic leadership of the House who convinced President Nixon to appoint him as Vice President. Prior to this selection had been elected by other members of the Republican Congress as Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

Question: How flexible are you in your ability to adapt to unexpected circumstances? Can you give an example?

Leaders must be willing to take risks. Since the beginning of his political career, Richard Nixon was known as a "hard liner" against communism. However, as president, has recognized the opportunity to change the world, going against his nature and history, in pursuit of a higher purpose. Many political experts have said that his efforts with open arms encouraged the Chinese leaders to take a higher view of the world in their attempt to "modernize" their culture and economic system.

Question: When was the last time you did something "unpredictable" in order to take out of your comfort zone in order to achieve a great goal and meaningful?

Leaders recognize that sometimes a great personal power can be abused. Lyndon Johnson was a man who was ambitious, very confident, and headstrong. This helped him gain power as majority leader of the Senate, Vice President and President. However, during the war in Viet Nam, it is these characteristics worked against him as he chose to lead an active general, although he had no military experience. This has led to uncertainty, confusion, and added unnecessary complexity to an already difficult situation.

Question: What personal strengths do you possess that may become liabilities when used improperly or with others?

Effective leaders have a sense of self as well as a sense of humor
Although John F. Kennedy was president for less than three years, was beloved by American audiences. He connected with people in ways that have touched the hearts and minds. Her self-mocking sense of humor and obvious self-esteem, earned him a loyal following that continues decades after his death.

Question: How do you show your hand "lighter" for others?

As the President of each personality style may differ, we can learn something from each one. During this inaugural period, take a moment to consider what you learn from them and how this change what you do in managing their behavior and the other leaders ....