1. The most important leadership rule is to make it safe by apologizing for mistakes and showing others it is safe to mess up in order to be forgiven rather than punished. This sets a good example for others. 2. Leaders should listen to ideas and be willing to change the way things are done to create an environment where everyone can succeed. 3. Focus on getting things done, celebrate successes, and enjoy the pride and rewards of completing jobs in order to motivate the team.

1. 4 GUIDING
LEADERSHIP RULES
By Shon Holyfield

2. 1. MAKE IT SAFE
You must be comfortable coming forward and
apologizing when you mess something up. To be
forgiven, not punished for mistakes. Set a good example.
Show others that it is safe to mess up. This is the way to
lead your people. This is by far – the most important rule.

3. 2. LISTEN, BE WILLING TO
CHANGE
Share ideas and points of view – to be open to changing
the way you do things to create and maintain an
environment that everyone can do well in.

4. 3. GET THINGS DONE
Focus on getting things done – celebrate in the success
of a job well done – enjoy the pride and rewards that
come with getting things done. Your team will be more
focused and generally happier if they are succeeding in
getting things done. You have to lead them.

5. 4. MAKE WORK FUN
Find ways to make work fun – play games at work - with
the professionals around you. Most companies schedule
off site activities – that reinforces the idea that fun
happens outside of work. Make work fun by hosting fun
activities there.