Swagger - Does it Fit?

The word “swagger” conjures up images of John Wayne starring in a classic Western movie or Mohammed Ali brashly proclaiming “I am the greatest.” Does such swagger fit within the skill set of a leader?

In his article “Confidence: Putting Grace in Your Swagger” John Baldoni describes swagger as “a healthy dose of confidence without overconfidence,” and “the subtle display of confidence and capability.”

Leaders with swagger display pride in their work and reflect their ability to get things done correctly and achieve consistently. When displayed appropriately it can help a team or organization feel better about itself and its people.

A leaders confidence can be contagious, but arrogance alienates followers. So how can a leader be sure to show swagger appropriately?

Baldoni's suggestions -

Know Yourself
Know yourself and operate in the areas in which you naturally excel. Find teammates who can complement areas where you are weak. Being in your sweet spot will spark your swagger.

Know Your Team
Your ability to delegate tasks based upon the collection of talent you have surrounding you is vital. Understanding relational dynamics within your team and promote unity. Like a Sherpa make sure each member has the tools to succeed and is positioned in their area of enjoyment and expertise. A well equipped, positioned and harmonious team that is set up for success will have swagger.

Share the Glory
Swagger is a team product and requires to be spread around. Accept the blame and pass along the glory. Praise and encourage those you lead and affirm their hard work. Make it a habit to shine the spotlight on the achievements of team members to promote swagger.

Know Your Limits
According to Baldoni too much swagger is a real danger - "Swagger can dull a leader’s strategic thinking or obscure an obligation to the people for whom he or she is responsible". Suitable swagger must be infused with humility, otherwise your leadership is prone to the blinders and confines of self-importance. An attitude of superiority will separate you from their team, and egotism will rob your appeal and influence with those you lead.

If the "LMC Buzz" is anything to go by it would appear that swagger is very much a by product for LMC graduates.