The internet is full of articles about how to be a great leader. One of my favourites is Walter Isaacson’s critique of Steve Jobs. And many of these essays will point out the important differences between leadership and management. In effect, this is one of the key challenges I face as a business coach. CEOs, whether they be at concept level or at a much later stage of commercial development are asking me: “How can I lead my company out of this mess and into better times?” From my perspective, I am usually find myself looking at a fairly anxious-looking new client, whose face is demanding some words of wisdom and hard impact. And this is when I reveal my surprise. I start with the client themselves, taking them back to basics. First, some elementary body language. In the past month alone, I met three individuals in Israel who had sat opposite me either with their arms folded or in a slouched position or both. As I pointed out to them, that posture is not the one I would expect from somebody who is engaged with what is going on around them. In fact, I do not know of too many senior execs that I respect who hold themselves in such a manner. Message? Change or been seen as somebody less than you are. However, the second point is much more challenging…and this applies to at least two of the three people referred to above. When I went into their office, it was a mess. New papers intermixed with old correspondence. Invoices strewn everywhere. Pens and pencils, usually non-operative, scattered on the main desk. etc. Not an enthralling sight for visitors, be they suppliers or customers, to have to contend with. As I try to encourage my clients to understand: If you want to be seen as a leader, the first thing you must do is to create your own professional environment. Your office should echo what you are demanding, and this will often have a knock on effect on how others judge you. For the record, when my clients find the time (and courage) to have a junk out, they benefit financially. It is amazing how many discover missing contact numbers of potential clients or expenses where the VAT has not been claimed. Leadership skills can be learnt. Some people find this easier than others. However, in order to become a leader, you need to show others around you that you can command respect. That starts with implementing a few old-fashioned basic principles that are often taught back in first grade.