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Being an ineffective leader will result in a lack of motivation within your team. Deadlines and goals will be missed; having a strong leader encourages teams to work their best and do so efficiently.
Whether you manage a large or small team, leadership skill are important. For some, leadership comes naturally. Some people have to work hard at being a leader. Either way, working on your leadership skills will improve your ability to empower and inspire others. They will want to follow your leader, and your team will perform better.
- Be Passionate
In order for people to follow you, you have to care about your goals. Quality leaders aren’t just focused on making sure they reach deadlines; they have a genuine passion for the project they are working.
Let your team know why you have such an interest and excitement about this project. Check on their progress; show an interest in their progress and encourage how far they have come. Appreciate all contributions.
- Reward Your Team
People need to be encouraged to keep moving in the right direction. Find ways to reward your team for great performance. When they hit important goals, let them know how pleased you are.
- Be Trustworthy
You have to share information and be transparent as a leader. If circumstances change, you have to let your team know. When they feel as if you are untrustworthy, they are unlike to work towards the goals. Being transparent as a leader will make for a happier workplace.
- Never Point Fingers
Mistakes happen, it is a fact of life. Never point fingers at a team member if they are responsible for the mistake. It will embarrass them, and it is unlikely to motivate them. Instead, focus on providing strong, positive feedback.
- Develop Your Team’s Skills
Everyone can always improve. Find ways to work on skills as a team. Time management is a great thing to focus on. As you help develop these skills, your team overall will improve their potential.
- Be Brave
Great leaders are brave and aren’t afraid to share their thoughts. They aren’t afraid to try a new thing and fail. Leaders throw new ideas out there and take risks. Brainstorm frequently and exchange ideas with your team.
- Finish Everything
Don’t jump around with your focus. If you are taking your team through a course to develop a skill, complete it to the end. Don’t leave it half finished. This divides their attention and reduces productivity as they jump from one task to another.
- Improve Yourself
Improving leadership means being honest with yourself about areas where you may be lacking. Listen to a great motivational speaker like Steve Farber to get some ideas on how to improve yourself.
- Communication skills are important for quality leadership. Work on improving your ability to communicate effectively with your team. Seek any opportunity to improve yourself.
- Lead by Example
In the workplace, you have to lead by example. You have to lead with actions, not words. While words are important, showing your team how to perform by example will go further. Find ways to be positive and show them how to make a difference. Go the extra mile and prove to your team that you are dedicated.
- Be a Great Teammate
You aren’t just their leader; you are a fellow teammate. Some of the best leaders are also the best listeners. You have to open channels of communication. Listen with purpose to their thoughts and concerns. Team members want to be heard. Also, you are then able to incorporate some of their ideas into the plan. Good leaders want the best solution, regardless of who it came from. Always give credit to your fellow teammates. You are working together, not divided.