Leading with Grace
I love this short clip by Seth Godin and Tom Peters discussing decency and grace at work. Seth’s advice for the small business owner is especially insightful. I hope you will take a minute to watch it.
I think someone that leads with grace is first and foremost generously helpful to others. They help because it’s the right thing to do and not because they expect anything in return other than the opportunity to advance the shared purpose. Graceful leaders provide encouragement to other purposeful leaders and followers, patience to those working to become purposeful, and professional but resolute censure to those that subvert the purpose.
Grace is not cheap; it’s priceless.
About the Author: Bret L. Simmons
Welcome to my blog! Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section of my posts. I publish all constructive, non-anonymous comments. 
Bret, I saw this title and was immediately drawn to it. “Grace” is a word we don’t use in business – but should.
More and more, I learn that those leaders who lead with kindness, decency, openness – live their leadership (and lives) with grace bestowed upon them. Its our job to let them know (which I do, when I recognize it)when they are in it. We all need encouragement to continue to do the right things!
What a beautiful word – “grace”.
[Reply]
Bret L. Simmons Reply:
September 4th, 2009 at 11:42 am
So appreciate your comment, Mary Jo. I too love this concept. We need more coaches like you to spread the word, show the way, and encourage others to lead through right relationship. Thanks!! Bret
[Reply]
I agree with Mary Jo – seeing the concept of grace being addressed in terms of leadership is a powerful draw that hopefully more will recognize, and more importantly, adopt as part of their mode of conduct.
Before the current economic decline, there was much talk about the importance of engaging employees, of those who work in your team. Often this would revolve around what incentives could be offered to subordinates to keep them motivated. This is a great reminder that the best way to engage others is to simply be genuine in your desire to help others succeed, as their success will ultimately benefit everyone.
[Reply]
Bret L. Simmons Reply:
September 4th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
I agree with you 100 percent Tanveer. As always I appreciate the value you add with your comments. Thanks! Bret
[Reply]
This is refreshing content. I cannot say that I have ever heard the word grace used in a business setting. However, I see the astounding need to help cultivate leaders who embody the characteristics that have been shared on this post (kindness, decency, and openness). I would also add that an ounce, or pound, of humility can also help facilitate this style.
Grace goes a long way.
[Reply]
Bret L. Simmons Reply:
September 4th, 2009 at 8:03 pm
Garrick, thanks to Tom Peters for using the word grace in this video clip. He was right on. And I agree with you about humility also. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Bret
[Reply]
I agree with Garrick, this was refreshing to hear. Especially in these difficult times, it seems too many managers have the attitude of “at least you have a job”, and they don’t “care precisely about the words they choose” to communicate with employees. I believe graceful leaders are graceful in all aspects of their lives; it’s always about the greater good, and being selfless, and not selfish. Grace is definitely priceless.
[Reply]
Bret L. Simmons Reply:
September 2nd, 2011 at 8:38 am
Welcome, Lilliana. I hate that attitude that you should be glad you have a job now shut up while I treat you as bad as I want to. That comes from a very ugly place. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Bret
[Reply]