MY SECRET - I would rather be the Dream Weaver-in-Chief than the chief in charge.

 

My Secret: I'd Rather Be the Dream Weaver-in-Chief Than the Chief in Charge

In the bustling world of event management, where late nights and long roadshows are the norms, leadership takes on a unique form. It's a delicate dance between authority and camaraderie, discipline and understanding. As someone who has navigated these waters, I've come to realize that my secret aspiration is not to be just another chief in charge but rather the Dream Weaver-in-Chief. Here's why.

Don't Lead with Fear

Picture this: you're at a client meeting, and your team looks like deer caught in headlights. This isn't just uncomfortable; it's a red flag for clients. It suggests a fear-driven environment, where staff are constantly on edge. Leading with fear might get short-term results, but it's unsustainable and damaging.

Instead, aim to create an atmosphere where your team feels secure enough to engage confidently with clients. This doesn't mean you have to be overly nice or strive to be their best friend. In fact, being too lenient can lead to a lack of respect and boundaries being crossed.

The Balance of Leadership

Finding the right balance is key. You want your team to look up to you, not out of fear, but out of genuine respect. This balance allows you to guide them without having to micromanage every detail. When they respect you, they're more likely to take initiative and feel invested in their work.

Good Nicknames: A Sign of Affectionate Respect

You know you've struck the right chord when your team gives you good-natured nicknames behind your back. It's a sign that they hold you in high regard while also feeling comfortable around you. These nicknames often reflect the affection and respect they have for your leadership style.

An Iron Fist Veiled in Velvet

Respect is earned, not demanded. Yes, there's an iron fist involved – setting clear expectations and holding people accountable. But it's wrapped in velvet, meaning you enforce rules with fairness and empathy. This approach fosters long-lasting respect without instilling fear.

The Pressures of the Event Industry

Our industry is notoriously high-pressure. Late nights and long hours are common, and we're often in each other's faces for extended periods. Keeping everyone's spirits up without crossing professional lines is a challenge.

Not Best Friends, But Family

It's crucial to maintain a professional distance. You don't need to be best friends with your staff, but you can foster a familial atmosphere. Like any family, there should be rules, discipline, and moments of teaching. Within this structure, there's room for mutual respect and even affection.

Discipline and Teaching Moments

Discipline in the workplace doesn't mean being harsh. It's about guiding your team through challenges and turning mistakes into learning opportunities. By doing so, you help them grow professionally and personally.

Conclusion

Leading a team in the event industry is no small feat. It requires a blend of strength and sensitivity, authority and empathy. Striving to be the Dream Weaver-in-Chief means creating a vision that your team can rally behind. It's about weaving dreams into reality, together, as a cohesive unit that respects and supports one another. That's the kind of leader I aspire to be, and it's a journey worth taking.

#EventManagement #Leadership #DreamWeaverInChief #TeamBuilding #RespectfulLeadership #ProfessionalGrowth #WorkplaceCulture #EmpatheticLeadership #VisionaryLeadership #TeamCohesion