One of those shortened versions of words, that has become increasingly used in the past couple of decades, originally was meant to represent the excessive hyperbole, empty rhetoric, and often-unfulfilled promised made, and used, when marketing and/or representing some product or service. It’s usage, not in fact (because the behavior had unfortunately been relied upon for ages), but rather by expression, crept into the political jargon, as well. When a company, a salesperson, agent, organization, or some type of individual in a position of leadership, explained a plan, or course of action, etc, haven’t you ever wanted to scream out, something like, Just the facts, please, rather than all the rhetoric, or HYPE. Unfortunately, however, many individuals in these types of positions, buy into the hype themselves, and have convinced themselves they actually and truly believe in it! Because of this, those of us involved in professional leadership training and development, have devoted more time and energy to helping these people, differentiate between reality and fantasy, and be able to differentiate between them, so they could better lead in a relevant, sustainable manner.

1. History; heritage; honesty; heart/head: The first thing any new leader must understand is that every organization has certain unique characteristics, especially regarding its history, heritage, mission, constituency and purpose. He must clearly understand and appreciate these things, and focus on the best way to honor and maintain the heritage and purpose, while tweaking the group, gradually and in an evolutionary manner, so it maintained its relevance, and kept the interest of present and potential stakeholders. One must avoid trying to falsely represent the group, as being other than it actually is, and maintain an honest evaluation and representation, in his discussions, etc. Avoid the tendency to either abandon the emotional connection, in attempt to be overly logical and/ or calculating, or vice versa! In order to do so, one must first realistically know what his group is all about-its needs, priorities, strengths, weaknesses, and mission.

2. You; your; yes: If you’ve got what it takes to be a powerful, effective leader, you must be ready, able and willing to trust your gut, and proceed in the best interest of your organization. Avoid the easy tendency to merely agree, in order to avoid perceived conflicts or disagreements, and neither become a yes-man, or surround yourself with those types of individuals!

3. Perceptions; priorities; possibilities; plan: Can you differentiate between what you perceive and what is actual? Can you effectively describe things in such a way, as to articulate your message, in a compelling, motivational manner? Are you addressing true priorities, or merely what others have said they are? Do you remain open-minded to alternatives, and look for the best possibilities, while remaining grounded and realistic? Do you merely keep hyping, blaming and/or complaining, or are you proposing and acting on, a valuable, meaningful, action plan?

4. Enriching; emphasis; empathy; energy; excellence: Is your goal to achieve good-enough, or will you strive for excellence? How will you determine what to place the most emphasis on? Will you objectively listen to those you serve, in order to better understand their perspectives, needs, concerns and priorities, in a truly empathetic way? Can you maintain your energy and focus?

If you want to become a real, effective leader, you must attempt to minimize the reliance on HYPE, especially using it excessively or instead of seeking solutions! Focus on needs, and methods, and proceed forward towards your goals, on a consistent, regular basis.