Lagniappe (pronounced LAN-yap). Is a word used primarily in Louisiana, meaning a little something extra. (read the full Wikipedia entry). Since I first learned the word in college it has intrgued me. First, I love to say it, though it is hard to spell. Second the concept of giving people a little bit more than expected applies in so many areas of life.
Consider the power of giving a little something extra when serving customers or nurturing a relationship of any kind, for example.
Today though I woke up thinking about this word as it relates to us as leaders. As leaders we must give a little something extra. As leaders a little something extra is expected of us.
For us to become effective, or Remarkable leaders requires that lagniappe becomes a part of our being.
We must be . . .
- a little more disciplined
- a little more principled
- a little more patient
- a little more willing to serve
- a litte more decisive
- a lot more self aware
We must . . .
- listen a little closer
- communicate a little more frequently
- plan a little more thoroughly
- learn a little more
- expect a lot more (of ourselves and others)
These are just a few of the items of leadership lagniappe I think of this morning.
More important than my urgings or my lists, are the things on your list, and the actions you take because of your list.
What is on your leadership lagniappe list?
When you do those things how different are your results?
What does this reflect prompt you to do right now?
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
First thing to add a little more to: praise.
Good post.
Great addition David! I am looking for other great adds from others.
Well done. I love the concept of Lagniappe, particularly as it applies to listening as you note. As leaders, we often use listening as situationally versus making it part of our leadership practice. Peter Drucker famously coached us to make people’s strengths effective and their weaknesses irrelevant. A little more true listening can reveal the ideas, talents, and solutions that reside within others. It helps us recognize and develop the best in them. A little “Leadership Listening Lagniappe” can go a long way!