L23 We are what we speak. Here are a few more phrases that indicate leadership behavior and inspire followers:

• "How am I doing?" Get feedback on your performance. If you meet reluctance to be honest, try: "What's one thing I could've done that would have made your efforts more successful?"
• "What's your idea?" Your employees are a great resource. Don't waste it.
• "Look at the silly thing I just did." Bring humor to the workplace. Make fun of yourself on occasion; lighten up; smile a lot; laugh at adversity, even as you model seriousness of purpose.
• "We're in this together." Successful leaders convince subordinates that their interests are the same. You also have to walk the talk.