Beyond the Build

Leadership

Leadership in the Trenches

This picture of trench warfare in WWI might be 100 years old, but it sums up the way many have felt the last few months, including me at times. When we stick our heads up, we are not sure what’s around the corner or right over the hill. Having said this, it’s important to remember that we are all leaders in one way or another in whatever setting we may find ourselves. We can all help those around us. A couple of things I try to remember:

Care. To me, it’s healthy to share ones real thoughts and concerns. They are real to each person, and discussing helps us all. We need to listen to one another more than ever, being attentive and respectful.

Share. Being the “just right” leader is finding that correct balance of sharing knowledge and the extent to which it is needed by those in the group. Earn trust by sharing appropriately.

Times may be different, but the important things still rings true.

Merrill Stewart Jr.

Merrill Stewart is Founder and CEO of The Stewart/Perry Company, a commercial building contractor based in Birmingham.