ENGAGEMENT

This factor is about the impact that leaders have on people. While the Leader factor is all about the Leader, him or herself, this factor is not about the leader. It’s only about the impact of the leader on others. If the comedian’s joke makes the audience laugh, they are engaged. If the joke falls flat, the “engagement score” goes down. In considering the Engagement factor, think about “followers” or anyone who interacts directly or indirectly with the leader. Do people walk away feeling impassioned, energized and engaged? Regardless of the leader’s motivations and intent, this factor is all about the effect of the leader’s behavior.

This factor does not consider the role of the leader’s intent or actions. If a leader is really trying to inspire people, but nobody feels more excited and engaged, there’s no credit given here.

As John Quincy Adams said: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” By converse, if your actions don’t result in this level of engagement and impact, you’re not a leader. Essentially, if nobody follows you, you’re not a leader.

Examples of Engagement Factors

Followers feeling jazzed up. Enhanced motivation. Inspired reactions to the message. People walking away feeling crystal clear about the top priorities and key aspects of the vision. People feeling that they can fully trust their leader. Having new levels of potential be brought out. Feeling smarter. Feeling appreciated.