When was the last time you asked someone how they were doing?
Here’s how you can tell if someone is more concerned with power than they are with good leadership.
Someone concerned with power is going to use “I” and “Me” when they speak. When they talk to you, they will tell you what they are doing, feeling, thinking and may pause to ask you how you think they are doing, thinking, or feeling. That’s lousy leadership.
Someone who is an effective leader is going to use the words “You” and “We” when they speak. They use “I” a lot too, mostly to claim responsibility. They nearly always keep the conversation off of their accomplishments and on your goals and dreams. Hence, “How are you doing?” isn’t a nicety, it’s genuine curiosity and caring. They prefer to talk about you and search for ways to aid you in your pursuits.
So the next time you start a conversation, pay attention to who you’re caring most about.