It is very common for leaders to believe they have to hide their frustrations and struggles from their team, particularly in the hospitality industry. I disagree with this thinking.

Yes. You should always maintain your composure, and keep it professional. However, when your team sees that you are working hard, using both hands so-to-speak, and facing the same challenges that they are, they will be more likely to step up and help.

Beginning with my very first management position, at the tender age of 17, I have always been a leader who refuses to ask someone to perform a task that I am not willing to perform myself.

Anyone who has ever been on my team has seen me take out the trash, clean the restrooms, mop the floors, and even take a verbal assault from a guest without breaking down.

The company I am currently working for had a nine-week, in depth training program, in which I had to become an expert at every job within our four walls before I received my certification. With three offers on the table, the training program is what sold me on this company.

Not only does being knowledgeable about every aspect of the business make you a more effective leader, but it also invites your team closer to you as a person, allowing trust to grow. When one of my employees gets overwhelmed, they don’t think twice before asking for my help. They know I will do whatever needs to be done to keep the business running smoothly.

Be this kind of leader.

Although everyone has heard the term “lead by example”, there are an overwhelming number of leaders who do not understand what those words mean.

Can you think of an example in which you truly lead by example, and witnessed the benefit it had on your team?