In order to encourage everyone to participate and truly build leadership in an organization, please take care not to engage in or allow others to engage in the following behaviors:

1. Talking too much, too long, or in a manner intended to intimidate
2. Continually giving the answer or solution before others have had a chance to contribute.
3. Giving your solutions as the final word on the subject.
4. Pointing out minor flaws in statements of others. Stating an exception to every general statement that is made.
5. Repeating what has already been said perfectly clearly (except if you are trying to make sure you are understood)
6. Using dramatics to get the spotlight
7. Putdowns, eg. “I used to believe that, but now....”
8. Formulating your response after the first few sentences, not listening, and leaping in at the first pause.
9. Taking a firm stand for your position early in the discussion without being open to other ideas.
10. Avoiding feelings, intellectualizing, or making jokes when its time to share feelings.
11. Condescension and paternalism.
12. Continually taking charge of tasks before others have a chance to volunteer.
13. Speaking for others: “What so and so really meant was...”