1. True leaders influence others to grow. Someone who has experienced a true leaders helping hand will have growth for years to come. A true leader has a way of instilling confidence in others. A true leader looks for others strengths and helps develop them even more. A true leader takes others weaknesses and turns them around. Imagine running into someone that you had the privilege of working with, mentoring, years down the road. You listen to them share how their lives have grown and continue to grow all because of some part that you had in their lives. When you put others first, it is a privilege to share in their growth. Your influence truly will have an impact for years to come.

2. True leaders aren't in it for the glory or for the popularity. Being a true leader isn't always easy. There are days when it seems that everything is going wrong and you wonder if you are getting through at all. Some employees will not appreciate the high standards that you have for them. Ever had those days? Nothing seems to be going right. But then, there is a light at the end of tunnel and being a true leader can have its rewards. Perhaps you hear a “thank you”, or perhaps an employee that has been struggling to achieve his success finally has a break through and gives you his 100%. A true leader does whatever it takes to help others with their accomplishments.

3. True leaders must be trustworthy. It truly is a rare thing to find a leader/employer who truly cares about his employees. Some leaders aren't looking out for their employee's best interest. Some leaders are just money hungry. Some leaders just want others to make them look good so they can pat themselves on the back. A true leader leads with his heart, not with selfishness. Imagine a work place where the true leader is respected and therefore every employee wants to give their absolute best. The atmosphere in that work place would be absolutely amazing! Show that you are trustworthy and you will earn the respect of others.

Being a support to others is a great way to show your true leadership. Think about ways you can influence those that you are leading in a positive way. Acknowledge a job well done. Absolutely everyone appreciates hearing about a job well done. Offer business incentives. If an employee is not late for an entire month, reward them with a gift card to a restaurant. If you would like to see an increase in sales volume, offer a contest where the rewards is a travel certificate for a free stay at a hotel. Remember, you will hear for years to come stories of others continued growth – all because you took the time to lead with your heart and not selfishness.