Leadership is the ability to influence people to achieve better results. The most effective leaders have a strong sense of self and understand the qualities that make others want to follow them.
In the workplace, leadership rarely comes as second nature. As you hone your leadership skills, here are five tips to take you in the right direction.
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Engage Others
The payoff to engaging others in your plans and achievements is huge gains in passion, productivity and profitability.
- Consider each individual’s strengths, weaknesses and interests. Assign tasks based on what you learn. When a team member is deeply interested in an assignment, they will flourish – and so will you.
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Be Resourceful
Draw upon all your available resources to achieve your goals – and the goals and aspirations of your team.
- Pursue leadership training. Be a lifelong learner. The best training programs are those that incorporate interactive discussions and small-group practices.
- Find a mentor. This should be someone who shares your leadership philosophy and can provide objective advice and guidance. You must feel comfortable spending time with your mentor. Select this person based on their experience, wisdom and honesty.
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Don’t Be Afraid to Fail
Failures bring you closer to the leader you want to be. Your current struggles may be taking you down the pathway to growth and success.
- Be brave. The most effective leaders are not afraid to share their ideas with others. Improving your leadership capabilities requires you to put yourself out there and take risks.
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Communicate
The best leaders are the best communicators.
- Communicate consistently and regularly. Provide updates with individuals and with your full team. Keep everyone apprised of progress, developments, and any changes that occur or may be brewing. This helps people to feel trusted, and it builds loyalty and ownership.
- Make sure your messages are understood. Repeat yourself if necessary to make important points. Always ask if anyone has any questions. Then, wait five to 10 seconds before moving on, in order to give everyone time to process information and think about their response.
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Reward and Recognize
A leader makes other people feel important and appreciated. They excel at creating opportunities to provide recognition and thanks to their team members.
- Give specific, appropriate praise for individual and team efforts. Be sure your recognition is authentic. This is the best way to reinforce positive behavior.
- Create an environment where people feel valued. By doing this, you lead your team in the ultimate goal of optimizing customer service.
Looking to Show Off Your Leadership Skills?
Your investment in leadership training will pay off many times over, as you build your team and develop your talent for the future success of your business. Frontline Source Group can help you optimize your training program and reduce related expenses. Contact us today to arrange an informational presentation.
