Some believe good leaders are born. Others, that they were made through hard work.
Leadership is one of the most challenging things, and we all likely want to get better at it. You don’t always have leadership in your blood, that’s for sure. People also have different interpretations of what a leader is.
Some people think leaders are born. For others, good leaders emerge from bad situations.
Regardless of what you think, leading is as vital as breathing.
If leading is so important, how can you become a better leader?
Consider these tips:
1. Take time to know your team.
If you want to become a stronger leader, it’s essential to know your team. Get to know the individuals, but also understand their strengths and weaknesses. Ensure that you have a good handle on what each person can and can’t do.
Ask yourself: What are your team’s interests? What skills do they bring to the table? Which individuals have skills that complete others?
Each team member should know their strengths and weaknesses, so they don’t feel under-appreciated or overwhelmed by the job. They should also be aware of how others think of them and their contribution to the team’s goals. You need to know your people before you can lead them!
2. Lead your team by your example.
Effective leadership is about becoming an excellent example for everyone. Show your team how to be the best through your words and actions.
Why would others follow you if you don’t demonstrate exemplary leadership qualities like communication, dedication, honesty, and trustworthiness to your team? You can’t just tell them what to do. They need to see it first!
The most effective leaders don’t try to control others. They communicate with the team, inform members of options available, and motivate them to succeed.
Assess your team and ensure that every member has both the autonomy they need and the resources to own their tasks.
3. Make your expectations very clear and transparent.
An effective leader knows what he wants and how he wants his team to execute the necessary tasks. He sets goals, measures progress, and keeps an eye on the details.
Communicate your intentions clearly and ensure that everyone understands them.
4. Provide guidelines to everyone.
Give your team members specific guidelines to follow. By doing so, you let everyone know what you expect of them and how you want them to succeed.
Look for potential pitfalls. Have you made any mistakes you can share? Do you have resources that have restrictions for some reason? Inform your team members.
Share any information that might cause them to save time or energy. Ensure that everyone knows who is responsible for which tasks and responsibilities.
5. Stress accountability and offer rewards.
Reward your team members at the end of the day for doing a good job and achieving measurable goals. Let them know that all their hard work will be recognized when they do what you ask.
Tell your team members exactly what they need to do and when you expect them to finish. If a member does not meet a deadline, send an email or phone call to remind them of their responsibilities.
Accountability is necessary because it inspires others to work hard. Rewards also show your team members that you respect them and care about their performance.
By leading your team, you set standards for others to follow. Take the time to be an excellent example for everyone around you. Remember: you want your team to follow in your footsteps, so they can be successful too!
