Good leaders are the key to businesses succeeding. Those aspiring to develop leadership skills – or those looking to strengthen ones they possess – ask themselves: “How can I become a better leader? What traits should I display?” Allow us to show you:
Build Them up
The way you deliver feedback and criticism to your team can make all the difference. Poor, intimidating and/or less than thoughtful delivery of feedback negatively impacts your team member and just as importantly, your company culture. Lay the groundwork, set expectations and coach them along to build them up. Inspire and encourage them to become even better. Giving them freedom to grow and learn from mistakes is also important. When your staff goes outside of their own expectations and succeeds in learning something new, or securing a win, it can empower them far more than a compliment.
“Outstanding leaders go out of their way to boost the self-esteem of their personnel. If people believe in themselves, it’s amazing what they can accomplish.” -Sam Walton
Clarity, Communication & Candour
Good, clear communication goes a long way in strengthening ties with employees. By showing transparency and offering clarity, you keep communication lines open, enabling employees to know what’s going on and how they can help. Poor communication leads to mistakes and the old rumor mill spinning. Fluid communication is the backbone of a good organization, and your staff will thank you for it. This also goes for mistakes, if you have messed up, fix it quick, but don’t be afraid to own up to it. Employees seeing their leader take responsibility encourages them to do the same.
Do the Right Thing
Challenges in business may tempt cutting corners, or taking the easy way out. It may make you look good on the surface, but it’s not a smart long-term strategy. Your team members look up to you, so it is important to set a good example, especially when it means that you must put forth more effort. Employees that believe that you have ethics in mind are apt to follow your lead.
“Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.” – Peter Drucker
Give Credit Where Due
It doesn’t matter how good you are at your job, or how much work you did, your team is always the reason why projects succeed. Consistently give recognition and credit to your team. You need them as much as they need you.
Failure is All on You
If your team isn’t winning and succeeding, more leading needs to be done. Confirm team members are in roles that play to their strengths. Do they have the right or enough resources to accomplish their goals? Regardless of the reason, roll up your sleeves, dig in and lead them to win.
Calm as a Cucumber
When the going gets tough in keeping up with all the demands and expectations, staying cool is the rule. People want vulnerable leaders, yet, confidence and strength are essential in ensuring team members feel secure. Create a confident, strong and positive culture by leading by example.
“Great leaders don’t need to act tough. Their confidence and humility serve to underscore their toughness.” -Simon Sinek
Leadership is a dynamic, ongoing activity. In committing to leadership, you commit to lifelong learning and affecting the growth and careers of others. Essential traits like these helps set you on the right path!
