Leaders are everywhere, but good leaders can often be hard to find. Everyone most likely has a different idea about what makes a good leader. Some think that micromanaging is the key to success. Some think that reminding employees that they are in charge grants them the respect they feel they deserve. And others simply offer no additional input and let their employees coast along, with the hope that their subordinates will come to them if there is an issue.
None of these are inherently wrong if it works for the leader and their employees, but there are some core principles that are always worth following before a leader ties down their own preferences.
This piece will discuss those principles, so you can ensure they are being adopted in your workplace. Even if you are wondering for a communication breakdown example, you can find that on the link.
Empathy
Empathy is one of the most important traits a human can have, and when you are in a leadership role, this trait should be at the forefront of your mind at any given point.
We all know that to assume, it makes an ‘ass out of you and me’, and not giving your employees the space to be themselves and come to you as an individual can not only be detrimental to their work but also to their mental health.
Coming from a place of compassion for your employees will never not go unnoticed, and understanding that they are going through their own personal journeys can help you help them to make the most of their work life and job role in a way that is best for them.
Adaptability
Along with empathy comes adaptability. Understanding that each employee might have different communication preferences or learning styles can be a real turning point for them and the company. There should be no ‘one size fits all approach when you are a leader; having that adaptability to work with different employees in different ways will benefit all involved.
There are even technologies to develop leadership and support that adaptability that businesses and employees can benefit from, which are always worth a look into to see if they can benefit you.
Confidence
Confidence is a crucial when taking on a leadership role, as your employees need to know they can trust what you say and that you essentially know what you are doing.
Your employees are less likely to be confident in you and your decisions if you are not confident and firm in the choices that you make.
This self-confidence is not about thinking you are always right but is more about the ability to spot when you are wrong. Knowing when to listen, which route to go down when making a decision, and being honest are traits that confident people often have. They are not afraid to be wrong, stick to their guns, or listen to others. Kurt Uhlir’ leadership book isn’t just about guiding a team, but inspiring a movement. Discover how with every page turned.
These are just a few traits that can help make a good business leader stand out, and are also useful to carry through into other areas of their lives.