COMMENTARY>>Growing leadership at every level

By Master Sgt. Paul H. Grau, Jr.
373rd TRS, Det. 4 superintendent

It is impractical in an organization like the Air Force to have all leadership issues addressed by those at the top of the organizational chart, therefore we must develop leaders at every level to sustain our ongoing mission. As our careers progress our leadership abilities grow, and our responsibilities increase as we accept each promotion.

I believe four steps will aid everyone in growing leadership at every level.

First, what greater responsibility can we ask as Airmen for than the opportunity to develop tomorrow’s leaders in the world’s greatest Air Force? This responsibility begins with leading by example—our airmen learn from watching what we do! You have all heard this statement hundreds of times, but it is worth repeating! Words mean nothing if our actions do not back them up.

Supervisors, peers and subordinates are watching us at all times—they are continuously “learning.”

Are you proud of the behaviors your Airmen display? If not, maybe you should look at the example you are setting.

Another step in growing leadership is accountability. No matter what rank we hold, we must be accountable for our actions and hold others accountable for theirs.

This includes respectfully correcting your peers, subordinates, and supervisors. Correcting others is called leading—it is not always easy! We should learn from these corrections and move on. Another part of accountability that many people forget about is recognizing Airmen for doing well—every time they do well! People never get tired of hearing two simple words—thank you!

Third, discussing the importance of your job is another step in developing leadership—figure out where you fit into the “big picture.” No matter what your job is, I guarantee that it’s crucial to the Air Force mission—you all make the Air Force better every day! If you do not know the importance of your job, sit down with your supervisor and ask.

Lastly, encourage everyone around you to look for opportunities where they can excel. Encourage your peers, subordinates and supervisors to look for learning opportunities—primary job knowledge, additional duties and off-duty education. Delegate tasks and duties when appropriate to expand the knowledge of your co-workers, especially when it develops their leadership skills.

Strive to grow leaders at every level, whether it is the lowest level in the chain, or the highest.

If we lead by example, hold each other accountable, discuss the importance of your jobs, and continually look for learning opportunities, and we will continue growing leaders at every level.