The idea of a “band” seems to be becoming less popular while the solo artist seems to have become the new norm. Apart from mainstream media which has great attentiveness on solo performers, becoming a solo artist may have some benefits in the modern music realm:
- The solo artist may be able to get more done as they aren’t dealing with constant opinions and input from others, and
- They have an opportunity to possibly earn more from their craft.
As a band leader you will need to bring people together for a common purpose, but you will also need to develop a leadership presence. Leadership presence is earned authority. It’s what you do to convince others to believe in you and your mission. As a leader, you will need to earn the right to lead others and have them show you their support.
- Earned – You have led by example.
- Authority – You have the power to lead.
If you’ve been in the music industry for some time then you may have found yourself in situations where bad leadership was in clear display. I certainly have. One particular session springs to mind, where the artist adapted a “my way or the highway” attitude. It left the musicians feeling uncomfortable and unsupportive. You’re focusing on the pay cheque and not the music.
While some people do have a natural sense of leadership presence, it will be necessary for others to develop it. If you don’t have the support of others, you have failed to achieve presence through leadership.
Developing Credibility
If you want to exert a strong leadership presence then confidence is of key importance. You need to trust and believe in the direction you’re undertaking. Even when things are not going well, you want to maintain your sense of confidence.
- Don’t assume power over others. Encourage and accept the opinions of others;
- Recognize the importance of trust. This is achieved by offering others a stake in the project as contributors and decision makers. In return, co-workers will repay you with the same sense of trust.
Qualities of Good Leadership
Think about leaders you like and the qualities that make them successful. One common quality amongst great leaders is that they practice what they preach. What’s visible on the outside is the same as what’s on the inside. Below are a few more points for good leadership outcomes.
- Make your presence felt by setting the right direction;
- Keep in touch virtually on a regular basis;
- Command but don’t control;
- Be accessible and approachable;
- Keep your calm in difficult and tense situations;
- Focus your energy on your listeners when communicating.
Sources
John Baldoni – “What is Leadership Presence?”
John Baldoni – “The Three C’s of Leadership”
