Jeff said no.
He could have been fired. There were those who wanted to fire him. But Jeff, the employee’s manager, said no. There was pressure from the top level of the company to fire him. Jeff told them that it would be a mistake to fire this individual and that he would not be a part of it. He fought to keep him, and he won.
Jeff then developed a plan of accountability, education and training for his team member. The road will not be easy and it will require investment. Jeff believes that it will be worth the effort. You see, he views this situation from a different perspective than others. He sees more than a position or an error that was made. Jeff sees the heart and desire of his team member. He also sees the potential that this person possesses.
The true essence of leadership is having the courage to believe in someone when others will not. It is taking a stand even when we know it will be hard. It means fighting for others who need an advocate. It means caring about the people that we influence.
Jeff had the integrity to take a stand when he could have taken a pass. He had the discipline to create a path of recovery and success for someone in his circle of influence. He did it because it was the right thing to do.
Choose to make the hard decision to stand in the gap for others and you will make a difference.
Larry
Check out our latest episode on the Crossing the Line Podcast:
Charlie Meyer - New Choices
Listen on Apple Podcasts | Listen on Spotify | Watch on YouTube | Website
