Lead from the Middle

According to Pat Williams, senior vice president of the Orlando Magic, leading from the middle is more difficult than leading from the top. When you're on the top of the pack, motivation is easy. When your company, church, or organization is in the middle of a struggle that's harder. Here are Nine communication Principles to help:

• Dispense information freely to build morale.
• Go out of your way to solicit ideas and suggestions.
• Don't just give orders, explain them.
• Rip out the office grapevine by its roots.
• Talk to those who are affected by your decisions.
• Maintain an informal atmosphere.
• Communicate simply, clearly, and with a strong point of view.
• Be accessible to your people.
• Encourage personal relationships.