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The U.S. Army's Eleven Leadership Principles

' Be tactically and technically proficient
' Know yourself and seek self-improvement
' Know your soldiers and look out for their welfare
' Keep your soldiers informed
' Set the example
' Ensure the task is understood, supervised and accomplished
' Train your soldiers as a team
' Make sound and timely decisions
' Develop a sense of responsibility in your subordinates
' Employ your unit in accordance with its capabilities
' Seek responsibility and take responsibility for your actions

While we may not call those who work with us soldiers, the rules that the Army uses can certainly be translated to the business world. Especially if you are a new leader/manager and are trying to make your way-these are good thoughts to pay attention to.

I really like SET THE EXAMPLE. What does this mean? To a manager (and indeed anyone) it may mean projecting an air of professionalism in how you dress, speak, conduct business and treat those around you. Have you integrity or are your words hollow? Do you respect your peers as well as those who report to you and those to whom you report? Can you be trusted?

One of the things I discuss during my mentoring sessions, is the mentor's ABSOLUTE responsibility to protect the confidentiality of the person being mentored, to be accountable for their success and to build a professional relationship. The same goes for a manager.

You are in this role because you fit the criteria and were recognized, in part, for your POTENTIAL.However, right now, at the start of the new year, assess yourself. The respect of those around you, and that means everyone, is not based simply on potential. Like an investment commercial some years ago said, "YOU MUST EARN IT."

So the question is: What are you doing right now to earn it?