Whether you're starting a business, launching a new project or wanting to step up the corporate ladder, you need a team of people who are truly motivated to help you make it happen. Jo Bassett shares her tips for being an inspirational leader and energising your supporters.

If you have a big dream, for your career or your business, one of the most important things you can do to ensure your success is to reach out to others for their support and expertise.

Too often we get sucked into the superwoman myth and think we have to do everything ourselves. But if you're truly dreaming big, you simply can't do it all on your own. Ideally, you'll have help and encouragement from your family and friends. You'll also need a great team of professionals to provide advice and assistance.

So, how do you inspire these people to really get 'on board' with your plans? To truly believe in what you're doing and to give you their full commitment and whole-hearted support?

Great leadership is the key

Through my work as an executive and performance coach, I've seen great leadership skills in action at the highest level - with CEOs and government heads. I've also had to call upon similar leadership skills to successfully spearhead government and community programs, and as an entrepreneur in my own right.

One of the hallmarks of a truly successful leader or entrepreneur is having a crystal clear vision.

You have a desire for change, an ability to see beyond the current obstacles to a better future, and a determination to have that vision realised.

But your vision alone isn't enough.

For others to follow you need to articulate a shared vision

First you must build a detailed mental picture of success, of the time when all your objectives have been achieved, and then articulate this clearly for yourself. When you hold this touchstone firmly in mind, you will convey in every action and word deep belief, calm confidence and purposeful direction.

This is a great start, but it won't be enough to carry a group of people forward. The next vital steps are to communicate your vision through shared language, demonstrate you understand their needs and interests, and spark their enthusiasm to take up this goal as their own.

Checklist for creating your shared vision

Take the time and space you need to create your vision statement and then check in:
• Have you thought creatively, expansively and imaginatively? Be big and bold.
• Is your vision statement inspirational and aspirational for you and your listeners?
• Is the vision clear and simple? Now is not the time for detailed or complex plans. Make sure your vision is easily grasped so it can be taken up and passed on by others.
• Have you used common and shared language? Have you connected with the story and dreams of those you want to inspire?
• Does it generate excitement when you share it with others? If not, revisit the checklist.
• Now write about it, talk about it, and review it regularly with those who support you. Allow them to become co-creators of the vision as it evolves.

Jo Bassett is an executive / life coach and founder of Living Savvy - lifestyle program for personal development and evolution. At www.livingsavvy.com.au you can watch online as real women learn to live savvy with life coaching, join the free online community of women fine tuning their lives to live extraordinary, and get practical advice from expert coaches.