In order for a leader’s people to want to follow them the leader must be willing to let their guard down and let them know who they really are.
When given a choice most people will only willingly follow or be influenced by someone they trust. Trust is not something that comes easy though. For someone to trust you they have to feel like they know you and what you stand for. They must believe in you.
One of the best ways for others to get to know you is by being open, honest, and at times vulnerable in your communications with them.
The average person is not always open or willing to share their thoughts, ideas, or what they value with just anybody. That is because there will always be a certain percentage of people that won’t agree with you. By sharing too much it could possibly open you up to a certain amount of criticism.
The best leaders understand this and are willing to take the risk of criticism. Because they know the value and importance of trust and the impact it has on their effectiveness to lead others.
A leader needs to communicate openly, honestly, and at times be vulnerable.
About willieryder
Willie Ryder spent 10 years in the United States Marine Corps working in Communications and Information Technology in multiple different Leadership roles. He then went to work at Microsoft where he has been for almost 15 years now working in Engineer, Manager, and Leadership roles.
Willie is very passionate about his personal and professional development and also helping others grow. Especially our next generation. He was an active member in Toastmasters for 8 years where he worked on his Communications and Leadership skills and has mentored many others in these areas.
Willie has been a year round youth basketball coach at www.YesICanBasketball.com for 13 years where he has had the wonderful opportunity to work with and coach 100's of kids of all ages. The past 6 years he has regularly volunteered to speak about character traits and mentor kids at the nearby public elementary schools. Over the last 3 years he has been a volunteer mentor with the nonprofit organization www.RightMovesForYouth.org where he tries to make a positive impact on some of the local High School students.
Willie has been married to Jennifer for 24 years. They have 2 daughters, a son, and a Siberian Husky. In his free time he enjoys spending time with family, attending and serving at Elevation Church, Coaching youth basketball, Writing, Public Speaking, Reading, and Running.
Willie Ryder - A Dreamer on a Journey 