Attraction Marketing Leadership

I was recently reviewing a brief interview with Lee Cockerell, retired executive vice president at Walt Disney World.  He was asked what he thought was the most important leadership quality to have in business.  His response was integrity, honesty and trust.  I could not agree with him more.  Having these qualities is essential in any type of leadership role, but even more so in network marketing.  Unfortunately the industry has had a bad wrap.  People remember the scams, pyramid schemes and all of the other dishonest methods a few people used.  The industry is now very reputable.  Of course there will always be a few dishonest people pulling scams, but as with any type of investment, you should always look into any company you are considering to join.  Regardless of your industry, these qualities are critical for successful leadership. Let’s take a lot at the qualities identified by Mr. Cockerell:

Integrity:   Mirriam-Webster’s On-line dictionary defines Integrity as a firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values.  I consider things such as following through with what you said you would do or doing the right thing even if it means loosing a sale.  You are not trying to persuade someone to join your opportunity when deep inside you know this is not appropriate.  I know I may make a few people angry, but I also think that some methods of overcoming objections are close to being harmful to your integrity (it really depends on what and how this is being done). 

Honesty:  I believe this goes hand in hand with both integrity and trust.  I believe in being up front.  I don’t have all the answers and if a prospect asks me a question to which I don’t know the answer, I let them know.  I also tell them that I will find the answer and get back with them.  Then I follow through.  I truly believe most people are not out to get a sale at any expense.  It’s been my personal experience that people in the network marketing industry tend to be a helpful group. Not only do they want their customers to be happy, they know that dishonesty can be damaging to their business.  Any good leader knows that dishonesty can be damaging to their team. 

Trust: If you have integrity and you are honest, more than likely you will develop trust!  It’s obvious how important trust is to customers, prospects and your team members.  Trust comes through the process of building relationships.  As people get to know you and what you are all about, they begin to develop trust.  I believe this is sacred and should be protected.  If you gains someones trust, it reinforces the obligation you have to that person.

There are many imporant characteristics of great leadership.  I welcome your feedback and encourage you to post about your views on the subject.

To Your Success!
Cheryl