Google completed 10 years of research on what makes a good manager at a company. These 10 traits resonated with Team NRPR, as they reminded us of our own CEO, Nicole Rodrigues. Over the next 10 days, we are running a special series on this blog with our reactions to the list and what it means to be a good leader, written by individual NRPR staff members. This is post 1 of 10 in the series.
A leader is one who helps others to build their own leadership skills whether as leader of a project, department, or just leader of own’s destiny. A coach may be the leader of a sports team or the person who helps to train individual athletes with the skills they need to succeed in their chosen field. Leaders push others to push themselves to achieve success and provide encouragement when things go wrong or the person needs a confidence boost. They may see potential in a person that the person does not see in herself. Leaders also help the team to focus on the bigger picture and to understand the goals of the organization. Yes, it is fun and rewarding to win a game or to score the big account, but no one wins every time. In those situations, leaders need to look at the bigger picture and what could have been done differently in terms of preparation and play or completing a project on time and under budget. Feedback is critical to helping staff/players to learn and grow.
Nicole Rodrigues, NRPR Group’s CEO is a leader who exemplifies this coaching mentality. She was once a cheerleader for the Oakland Raiders and then became a coach for her staff. We even call her Coach NRod. She gives people the ability to own projects and to figure out how to accomplish tasks all the while, keeping a watchful eye on what we’re doing, checking emails and deliverables before they go to clients. If we get into a tight spot, Nicole will help us to find out bearings and determine next steps. If a person drops the ball or requires a reprimand, Coach Nicole will deliver a stern warning and a note to shape up and some guidance on how to do so. Once a project is complete, she is there with a Thank you and Appreciate You, which provides a warm, fuzzing feeling.
Nicole is a terrific coach and leader, exemplifying one of the 10 traits of a ‘perfect’ boss.
Lynda Starr is Marcomms Director at NRPR Group.