West Point Leadership

[David Sandusky]

I happen to know a number of West Point alumni (other service academies too, but heavy West Point in my contact for some reason).

Many of the executives I know are a result of my work as an executive recruiter, but I have friends well into their respective careers after West Point graduation and tour. To the person, regardless of what they do for a living, possess a brand of leadership that you can feel.

This morning I gave my talk about personal brand with a touch on vision to the Denver chapter of Service Academy BizNet (West Point Alumni). Similar to many groups I speak to, there was a mix of employed, unemployed and business owners all looking for the epiphany to move to the next level as a integrated professional who stands out. Also as usual, the common questions and theme was around how to stand out especially during change. One important difference: each person in the room was an obvious authentic leader. Many did not see the differentiators, yet. Too close to themselves and even each other. Each person was a leader of leaders with their own authentic leadership qualities and personal brand experience.

Fascinating to see. Is there a chance you are so close to yourself that you don't even see a differentiator that happens to be the nugget you need to get ahead? The good news is if you network and manage a consistent personal brand, others will see it in you. Pay attention though because self awareness is key so you can build upon your strengths.

[Maria Elena Duron]

I agree, David. Many are so close to themselves that they cannot see the gaps (me included!).

I encourage my contacts to connect with three people that they know, like and trust and ask them these three simple questions:

1. What do you feel are my strengths?
2. What's the number one thing you think "I bring to the table"?
3. If you could change on thing about me, for the better, what would that be.

The key after all these questions is to be silent and really hear their answer.

You'll be surprised - yes, it is one of those epiphany moments.

[David Sandusky]

Originally Posted by Maria Elena Duron

The key after all these questions is to be silent and really hear their answer.

YES! We are all to close and even blind from real feedback. On a recent tweet conversation, someone admitted being nervous about an upcoming webinar because of feedback from the last one. When I congratulated him on knowing what he can build on to be great, he replied asking if people should seek out negative feedback?

I shared with him what I do and that is encouraging and rewarding people for answering my key feedback question - What would improve your experience? If I don't hear their answer as you point out, Maria Elena, I will not improve and did not value the time others take to provide the feedback.