From Good to Great: Mastering the Final 10% in Leadership

Phil Beckner once said, “You beat 50% of people by showing up, you beat another 40% by showing up with a great attitude. The last 10% is a dog fight." So let’s talk about being the last 10% leader. This powerful statement encapsulates the essence of climbing to the top in any field. Success isn’t merely about being present; it’s about excelling in a fiercely competitive environment. This blog explores how you can distinguish yourself as a top performer and lead with excellence.

1. The Basics: Showing Up (50%)

Showing up consistently is a fundamental building block of success. Whether it’s attending meetings, engaging with clients, or simply being present, your willingness to show up every day lays the groundwork for reliability and trust.

Key Actions:

• Be Punctual: Timeliness demonstrates respect and reliability.
• Be Prepared: Always come equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to contribute meaningfully.
• Be Consistent: Regular presence helps build relationships and ensures you're in the loop.

2. Elevate with Attitude (40%)

A positive attitude amplifies your presence. Enthusiasm, openness to feedback, and a proactive approach can set you apart from the majority.

Key Actions:

• Stay Positive: A can-do attitude inspires others and attracts opportunities.
• Be Adaptable: Flexibility in facing challenges shows resilience and a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Communicate Effectively: Good communication fosters collaboration and minimizes misunderstandings.

3. The Competitive Edge: The Last 10%

When you’ve mastered showing up and maintaining a positive attitude, what sets you apart in the final 10% is your ability to outperform and outlast others. This phase is often a dog fight, requiring grit, innovation, and leadership.

Embrace Continuous Learning

Why It Matters: In a rapidly evolving business environment, staying ahead means constantly upgrading your skills and knowledge.

How to Implement:

• Pursue Professional Development: Attend workshops, webinars, and courses relevant to your field.
• Seek Feedback: Constructive criticism is a powerful tool for growth.
• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of industry trends and best practices.

Foster Innovation

Why It Matters: Creativity and innovation keep you relevant and give you a competitive edge.

How to Implement:

• Encourage Creative Thinking: Regularly brainstorm and consider out-of-the-box solutions.
• Experiment and Iterate: Don’t be afraid to test new ideas and refine them.
• Empower Your Team: Create an environment where team members feel safe to share innovative ideas.

Exhibit Strong Leadership

Why It Matters: Effective leadership drives team performance and builds a culture of excellence.

How to Implement:

• Lead by Example: Your actions set the standard for your team.
• Mentor and Develop Others: Invest time in developing your team’s skills and career paths.
• Make Informed Decisions: Balance intuition with data to make well-rounded decisions.

Cultivate Resilience

Why It Matters: The ability to bounce back from setbacks defines long-term success.

How to Implement:

• Maintain Perspective: Focus on long-term goals rather than short-term challenges.
• Stay Determined: Persistence often separates the best from the rest.
• Build Support Networks: Surround yourself with a network that provides encouragement and advice.

Conclusion

Being in the top 10% isn’t about doing just one thing right—it’s about a combination of showing up, having a great attitude, and going the extra mile. The journey to becoming a top performer involves continuous improvement, a willingness to innovate, strong leadership, and unwavering resilience. At Flier Consulting Inc., we believe in empowering professionals to reach their fullest potential. By embodying these principles, you can not only achieve success but lead others on the path to excellence.

If you're ready to elevate your leadership skills and outperform the competition, connect with us at Flier Consulting Inc. We offer tailored coaching and consulting services to help you excel in your professional journey. Contact us today to learn more!