The Three Words

The best leaders share one common trait: the three words they regularly say.

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with a leader who once served alongside me. I've known this individual for a long time and have watched them evolve from a young, inexperienced leader to a seasoned professional who has earned the respect of everyone in their organization.

When I thanked this leader for following through on a request I made, he immediately credited his team, rather than taking the credit for himself by offering up three words. This moment highlighted a trait that I believe all great leaders possess.

We is greater than me

Great leaders understand that the reason they have a team around them is because, as leaders, they don't have all the answers. They recognize that their role is to influence and motivate their team to achieve objectives and improve the organization. Great leaders know they are nothing without a high-performing team.

Leaders provide direction, motivation, and vision, but they rely on their team’s competence and hard work to accomplish organizational goals.

It wasn’t me

Great leaders value their team. That’s why they understand the importance of these three words: "It wasn’t me." When things go right and success is achieved, good leaders give credit to their team, rather than seeking the spotlight for themselves.

In saying these three words, good leaders acknowledge their team’s contributions. It’s a trait shared by all truly effective leaders.