Are You Leading by Example? [Self-Assessment Test]

As a leader, your behavior sets the tone for your team, which can either enhance or hinder their performance.

Leading by example is a crucial element of effective leadership. It is a key skill for you if you want to motivate and inspire your team members to do their best work, follow your lead, and share your values.

Leading by example means that you lead through your everyday actions, rather than simply giving orders or directives. Your behavior should embody the values, standards, and expectations you have set for your team. You should always demonstrate a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and respect for others. This includes being punctual, reliable, constructive, and collaborative.

The benefits of leading by example are numerous.

First, it can improve your credibility as a leader, as your actions speak louder than your words. It can also increase trust and loyalty among your team members, as they will feel that you are committed to the same goals and values as they are.

Additionally, leading by example can enhance productivity, as your team members will be motivated to adopt your work ethic and attitude.

An example of leading by example might be a manager who takes the time to help their employees with their work, rather than delegating everything out. They might stay late to finish a project with their team or step in to provide backup during a busy time.

These actions demonstrate a willingness to pitch in and do whatever it takes to get the job done, which can inspire team members to do the same.

If you want to assess your ability to lead by example, take our self-assessment test.

By answering a series of questions, you can determine whether or not you are embodying the values, standards, and expectations you have set for your team.

Additionally, the assessment can provide you with actionable insights and tips to improve your leadership skills.

Self Assessment Test

To conduct the self-assessment, simply answer all questions, and click the calculate results button at the end.

Interpreting Your Results

0 - 20 Points

If you scored between 0-20 points, you might not be leading by example as effectively as you could be. It’s possible that you’re not consistently demonstrating the behaviors you want others to follow. Consider reflecting on your actions and how you interact with others to identify areas where you can improve your leadership style.

21 - 40 Points

Scoring between 21-40 points means that you have some strong leadership qualities, but there’s room for improvement. You may demonstrate good behaviors and attitudes some of the time, but not consistently. Take a closer look at your behaviors and identify areas where you can model the behaviors you want others to follow in a more consistent manner.

41 - 60 Points

If you scored between 41-60 points, you’re well on your way to leading by example. Your positive behaviors and attitudes are likely noticed by those around you, and can help inspire them to do the same. Keep up the great work and continue setting a positive example for others to follow.

5 Tips to Lead by Example

As a leader, it is important to set an example for others to follow. This not only helps to build trust and respect among team members, but it also reinforces the values and expectations that have been established. If you have just completed a self-assessment on “Are You Leading by Example?”, and you want to improve your leadership skills, here are five quick tips that you can implement today.

1. Communicate Effectively

As a leader, it is important that you communicate regularly and effectively with your team. This includes being transparent about your goals and expectations, actively listening to their concerns, and providing feedback that is constructive and specific. When you lead by example in communication, you set the tone for how your team should interact with one another, and you create an environment of open communication and trust.

2. Embrace Vulnerability

One of the more challenging aspects of leadership is being vulnerable with your team. It can be tempting to hide your own doubts and fears, but doing so can make you appear unapproachable or untrustworthy. When you embrace vulnerability, you create a deeper connection with your team members and show them that it’s okay to be human. This can lead to greater innovation, creativity, and collaboration.

3. Hold Yourself Accountable

As a leader, you need to hold yourself accountable for your actions, decisions, and behaviors. You cannot expect your team members to take responsibility for their own work if you are not willing to set an example. Accountability also means admitting when you have made a mistake and taking steps to correct it. When you lead by example in holding yourself accountable, you foster a culture of responsibility and ownership.

4. Recognize and Reward Good Work

Effective leaders know how to recognize and reward their team members for their hard work and achievements. This can be as simple as publicly acknowledging their efforts in a team meeting, or as formal as providing bonuses or promotions. When you lead by example in recognizing and rewarding good work, you demonstrate to your team members that they are valued and appreciated, and you encourage them to continue striving for excellence.

5. Show Respect

Respect is a fundamental aspect of leadership. You need to show respect for your team members’ opinions, time, and efforts, even if you don’t always agree with them. This can be as simple as asking for their input during team meetings, or as complex as allowing them the flexibility to pursue their own projects. When you lead by example in showing respect, you create a culture of mutual trust and gratitude, where team members feel safe to express themselves and take risks.