A leader’s potential is determined by those closest to him.
John Maxwell
Everyone needs a group of advisors. Someone or group they can go to and confide in or check in. This group helps to ensure they are going straight along the path they have determined.
When you look at most businesses, the CEO has their inner circle of people. Even the President of the United States has an inner circle. We all should have that someone, or group of people to assist us.
Even as our job changes, we may add or subtract people from the circle. These people need to be those that will challenge you and call you on things.
I had a colleague of mine that I used to bounce ideas off, and we would discuss things. Even though I can be stubborn and think highly of my own ideas, it was great to get another’s perspective who was close to the work and could challenge me, which she did. I have another friend who I can talk to about more personal things. He is in my inner circle, and we can share and give each other praise, advice or even admonishment. My wife is a great advisor. She knows me better than anyone.
For an inner circle to be effective, we have to be willing to listen and consider the advice provided.
I have seen other people’s inner circle help them destroy their career. Instead of helping in a tough situation, they ended up creating more drama and encouraged the person to take the wrong actions. This ultimately caused them to leave the company.
You have to pick the right people to be in your inner circle.
1-Do they complement you? Can they bring skills to the table that you may not be string in?
2- Do they add value to you? Is their motivation to really help you?
3 – Are they influential in the organization?
Take a look at your inner circle. How are they affecting your life? Are they challenging you and encouraging you in a positive way? Or are they creating drama which could come back and bite you!
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