It may be the primary rule of leading that no one can ever lead in a vacuum, or entirely by himself. Even though it might appear, at times, that it would be easier to just do it yourself, the effective and true leader realizes that he needs to involve others, if he wishes to achieve his priorities, goals, and to enhance the relevance and sustainability of his organization. Some have taken this to mean that you must attract followers (which is true), but perhaps far more important is that a primary responsibility of leaders is to identify, qualify, train, develop and encourage future leaders. Here are my 4 Keys For Developing Your Leadership TEAM.

1. You must both personally be absolutely trustworthy, as well as seek to attract others who are also this way. Your team should be composed of individuals who are ready, able and willing, to tell you what they truly think, as opposed to what they merely believe that you want to be told and hear. The necessary relationships must always be based on absolute and mutual trust and respect.

2. Use your expertise to enhance the individuals you surround yourself with. Help them to transform their experiences to quality and expertise. No one can lead unless they are capable of enduring, and your compelling focus must be on surrounding yourself with individuals who will help your organization to endure and exist. A real leader will always earn the trust and respect of others, and this will potentiate your ability to attract the best potential members of your team.

3. Ask what someone might be able to add to the group, either because of the abilities, attitude or other assets he contains, and how these will enhance the team, and all others involved. Make certain that those you select are action, rather than rhetoric – oriented, and will stand up and be counted, and lead by example.

4. Do these people mean what they say, or do they merely follow the popular course? Do they have the courage to consider alternatives, without bias or prejudgment? One of the important considerations is whether someone is the type of individual who makes the other members of the team better, and thus let the most compelling ideas, plans and approaches consistently gain momentum (rather than slipping and never gaining necessary traction)

If you decide to lead, develop the best inner circle and advisors you can, and avoid the often – followed course of only seeking Yes – men! Use these 4 Keys for Developing A Leadership Team.