To be an inspiring leader doesn’t need to be rocket science. Especially when it comes to inspiring people.

Inspiring others has a lot to do with whether you care about them and show a genuine interest.

It’s not about following a strict method or watching TED Talks or YouTube videos by famous business people. It’s not about comparing yourself to others and trying to be someone you’re not.

When Charles Schwab CEO Walter Bettinger was in college, he worked hard to pass his final exam.

But his professor set him up for a surprise. After telling his students that he had already taught them everything he knew about business, he gave them one last question.

And it was a powerful one that went straight to the heart of leadership.
“What is the name of the person who cleans this room?”

And so Bettinger failed his exam. But he made a vow to acknowledge and recognise the people he met. (Anecdote from his interview in the New York Times, February 4, 2016).

And that’s one of the most important lessons you can learn as a leader.
Want to be an inspiring leader?

Give them your attention, your time, show that you care and that you’re interested in them.

Then you won’t have to wonder what inspiration looks like.

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