Seeking Excellence as Leaders

This month the WFCA launched a pilot of the first industry wide leadership certification. SEAL Certification stands for (Seeking Excellence As Leaders). I believe it may be one of the most important endeavors the WFCA ever undertakes. Through the years I have found it is impossible to change the world around us without changing those who lead.

Many seem to think that leaders have arrived and no longer need to invest in their own growth, but Randy Gravitt of InteGreat Leadership, the company with whom we are partnering to provide SEAL Certification, notes that “all true leaders are learners.” Just as successful businesses allocate money for research and growth, serious leaders must commit time, effort, and resources to their own personal and professional development.

This willingness to continually invest in oneself is vital for personal growth and is required for leading others in a manner worthy of being followed.

Leadership is often talked about, written about, and presented, but in today’s world of rapid change, uncertainty, and complexity make the need to stay sharp greater than ever. The challenges we face as leaders are complicated and demand a willingness to think outside the box. In this environment, true leaders must be learners with a strong sense of self-awareness.

This can’t be learned in a once and done manner, but requires consistent investment in yourself over time.

Let’s look momentarily at the alternative. Chances are you have worked for or with a leader who thought they had arrived at their peak of knowledge and skill. It is like the “Emperors new clothes” — the story about the emperor who paraded naked through the streets believing he was wearing clothes made of such fine material that only the truly elite could see them.

Everyone knows when the leader quits learning before the leader. Not only is the learning journey a lifelong one, but the best leaders readily admit that they have not arrived. By committing to continuous growth, leaders remain relevant.

Another reason to invest in your own leadership is the example you set, Leaders are more than simply decision makers; they are role models. A leader who is a learner sets a strong example for their team, their community, their children, etc…

This creates a culture of inquisitiveness, growth, and learning. When employees see their leaders embracing new challenges to continue their growth, they are more likely to do the same.

An often overlooked advantage of continued leadership training is adaptability and resilience. Lifelong learners are better equipped to navigate challenges, change course quickly, and help their team through challenging times of change. The ability to adapt quickly without going into panic mode is one of the most admired traits

So why would the WFCA launch SEAL Leadership Certification for the flooring industry? The leadership journey is ever changing, and the need to invest in yourself to adapt to that change is non-negotiable. When you commit to lifelong learning, you are showing your commitment to personal and professional success, and influencing others to do the same.

Just as good sound financial investments pay a dividend over time, there is a compounding effect for those who commit to stay the course as a learner… on leadership effectiveness, influence, and ultimately on impact! ■