Leadership Checklist

John Gardner, in his book On Leadership described Douglas MacArthur as a brilliant strategist, a farsighted administrator, and flamboyant to his fingertips. MacArthur developed a list of questions to guide him in his leadership duties. These principles can be applied to any leadership situation.

 

 

  Do I heckle my subordinates or strengthen and encourage them?

 

  Do I use moral courage in getting rid of subordinates who have proven themselves beyond doubt to be unfit?

 

  Have I done all in my power by encouragement, incentive and spur to salvage the weak and erring?

 

  Do I know by NAME and CHARACTER a maximum number of subordinates for whom I am responsible? Do I know them intimately?

 

  Am I thoroughly familiar with the technique, necessities, objectives and administration of my job?

 

  Do I lose my temper at individuals?

 

  Do I act in such a way as to make my subordinates WANT to follow me?

 

  Do I delegate tasks that should be mine?

 

  Do I arrogate everything to myself and delegate nothing?

 

  Do I develop my subordinates by placing on each one as much responsibility as he can stand?

 

  Am I interested in the personal welfare of each of my subordinates, as if he were a member of my family?

 

  Have I the calmness of voice and manner to inspire confidence, or am I inclined to irascibility and excitability?

 

  Am I a constant example to my subordinates in character, dress, deportment and courtesy?

 

  Am I inclined to be nice to my superiors and mean to my subordinates?

 

  Is my door open to my subordinates?

 

  Do I think more of POSITION than JOB?

 

Do I correct a subordinate in front of others?