Essential Skills and Traits of Successful Maintenance Planners and Schedulers - Part 5: Leading by Example: Setting the Standard

Being a leader isn’t just about giving instructions—it’s about showing your team how it’s done. Actions speak louder than words, and when you lead by example, you inspire your team to follow your lead naturally. Here are five down-to-earth ways to set the standard and show your team what leadership looks like in action.

1. Be the First to Step Up

When the team’s facing a challenge, a leader who takes the first step sets the tone for everyone else.

• Example: If there’s overtime needed to hit a big deadline, say, “I’ll stay late tonight—who’s with me?” It shows you’re in it with them, not just calling the shots. Getting two techs to stay over and deal with a big problem, then they watch you go home at the end of the shift, is not leading by example.
• Why It Works: People are more willing to go the extra mile when they see you’re willing to do the same.

2. Follow the Same Rules You Set

Nothing loses respect faster than a leader who says, “Do as I say, not as I do.”

• Example: If you expect your team to show up on time, make sure you’re never late. If you require attention to detail, double-check your own work before handing it off. When you push everyone on the safety rules, don't let them see you breaking the rules.
• Why It Works: Consistency builds trust. When you hold yourself to the same standard as everyone else, it shows integrity.

3. Handle Tough Situations with Grace

How you react under pressure sets the tone for how your team handles stress.

• Example: If something goes wrong, don’t panic or start pointing fingers. Instead, say, “Alright, let’s figure this out together,” and lead the way to a solution. The last thing you want to do is start pointing the "finger of blame"! It's about handling the challenge at hand calmly and professionally.
• Why It Works: Staying calm and collected shows your team how to face challenges without falling apart.

4. Stay Open to Feedback

Good leaders don’t act like they know it all—they’re open to learning and growing just like everyone else.

• Example: Ask your team, “What could I be doing better to support you?” and take their feedback seriously. It's ok to show vulnerability and ask for their support in making you better.
• Why It Works: Being open to criticism shows humility and proves you’re invested in improving, which encourages your team to do the same.

5. Work Hard, But Show Balance

Leading by example doesn’t mean burning yourself out. Show your team how to hustle and how to prioritize well-being.

• Example: If you encourage your team to take breaks or use their PTO, make sure you do the same. Model what a healthy work-life balance looks like. Let them know about your outside interests such as going to the gym, or the vacation you took, to show how you try to balance life.
• Why It Works: It sends a clear message: hard work matters but so does taking care of yourself.

Final Thought: Actions Speak Louder Than Words

When you lead by example, you’re not just telling your team what to do—you’re showing them how it’s done. Whether it’s stepping up, staying calm, or being open to feedback, your actions set the standard for your team to follow. And when they see you practicing what you preach, they’ll be inspired to bring their best every day. That’s real leadership.