Maybe you are looking to advance your career? Or, maybe you are trying to improve the effectiveness of your team? In either case, strong leadership abilities are key to your success.
These five strategies can help you become a better leader.
- Take Responsibility Not Power
We often associate leaders with perks and privilege including a fancy corner office, a hefty paycheck and the right to boss everyone around. However, stepping up to be a leader isn’t about you. True leadership involves inspiring and supporting others. Simon Sinek, author of Leaders Eat Last, describes this concept as follows, “If you visit any chow hall in any Marine base anywhere in the world … The most junior Marine will always eat first, the most senior Marine will always eat last.” This is their perspective on leadership. “They view leadership as a responsibility, not as a rank.” (Business Insider, 2017) - Become a Problem Solver
Leaders clear roadblocks so others can do their best work. Think about it. When something goes wrong, who do people on your team turn to? It may be a manager, but other times it is a reliable and trustworthy colleague who lacks any official leadership title. By striving to be this go-to person, you will be developing stronger leadership skills. Be helpful, available, understanding, creative and competent. Also, show and don’t tell people how to solve problems. You want to empower not micromanage. - Be Knowledgeable in Your Field
To help others and solve problems, you need to have a thorough understanding of your industry. Even though you may not be an expert (yet), consistently work toward expanding your knowledge. Don’t be a know-it-all. In fact, if you are unsure about a topic, admit your shortcomings and ask questions to get up to speed. - Express an Interest in Others
Great leaders recognize personal issues can affect work performance, so get to know those around you. Ask about their families, their interests and their backgrounds. Practice good listening skills so you hear what they are saying. One way to do this is by briefly summarizing what the other person just said. This prevents your mind from wandering during conversations and allows for clearer understanding. - Focus on Results
As a leader, you will have to put plans into action and see them through to completion. Evaluate your goal-setting abilities in both your personal and work life. Do you set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely) and stretch goals? Do you use benchmarks to mark your progress? How do you deal with setbacks? Once you achieve a result, how do you stay motivated? Begin by tackling small, individual targets. Then, apply what you have learned to larger and more complicated projects.
Are You Looking to Lead Talented Employees?
At Halpin Staffing, our professional recruiters can find the right people to meet your business’s needs. We place accountants, engineers, administrative staff and industrial workers in Racine, Wisconsin, and the surrounding regions. Learn more about partnering with us today!