If you want to be a great leader, there’s no set formula to follow. However, there are some specific strategies that you can incorporate today and in the future to not only become a better leader, but also positively impact your organization in the process. Here’s a look at five of them:
Aim to talk less and listen more.
As a leader, a big part of your job is communicating. But that doesn’t always mean talking. It’s vitally important that you’re a good listener as well, and take the time to stop talking and really hear what your employees are saying. Sometimes, leaders think they know best, so don’t always acknowledge or take into account the opinions of their staff. But they can be an invaluable source of information, insight and inspiration – and can help you nip problems in the bud before they escalate.
Hire those with strengths different from your own.
Sometimes, it’s easy to hire people who are similar to your own background. You might click with them better and feel more comfortable around them. But in reality, you should be hiring people who can offer you expertise and strengths that are completely different from your own. When you do, you’ll build a stronger and more diverse team that can lead to more innovations.
Get to know your employees and nurture relationships with them.
It’s hard to be an effective leader if you don’t know your employees well. That’s why it’s important to get to know each one on an individual basis; not just their work performance and strengths, but also their personality and what motivates them. When you have some detailed insight into each of your team members, you can better manage and engage them in ways that are unique to them and more effective as a result.
Give your staff regular feedback; both praise and criticism.
As a leader, it can be tough to offer regular feedback. First of all, you don’t have a lot of time in your day to do it. Secondly, if it’s constructive criticism, giving it can feel awkward. However, when employees know where they stand – and areas where they need to improve – you’ll build a stronger team. At the same time, don’t forget to offer praise and recognition for a job well done.
Work on your leadership skills.
Just because you’re in charge, doesn’t mean you don’t need to continue to learn and grow. That’s why, if you have a specific weakness in the area of leadership, it’s important to seek out the right tools and education to help you improve. It’s also important to have a mentor or network of other leaders who you can turn to for advice and insight.
Are you a leader looking for professional help hiring for your team?
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