There is a science—and an art—to leading others. People want to work for leaders they can truly believe in and can follow; this is not breaking news. I, myself, have learned from the best leaders around me, modeling myself after the behaviors they exhibit and replicating the best approaches of all of them.
I truly believe that leadership success is defined very early on as a leader builds – or inherits – a team. It is said that there is never a second chance to make a first impression, and it is never truer than when you become a leader in an organization. That said, the tips that follow are the “art” behind my own approach to leading people:
- Learn from Your Best Leaders (and the Worst) – Reflect on your observations of the best leaders in your professional experience. Find the golden thread that makes all of them successful and replicate those approaches to leadership. Take note of the mistakes other leaders have made and be cautious to not reproduce those same experiences or outcomes within your own team.
- Build a Strong Team – Very Early On – People make up their minds almost immediately as to what you will – or won’t be – as a leader. Put a plan together early about your vision for the team that includes: what is important to you, your expectations for the team, and invite them to the mission of making meaningful contributions to the organization. Help them understand how you define success and reaffirm the greatness that they already demonstrate.
- Know your People – Spend time getting to know those that report to you. Understand what is important to them, what drives them personally and professionally, and what inspires them to be better (and to do more).
- Be Vulnerable When it Matters – Ask those that report to you to share their strengths and areas of opportunity, but be willing to share your own first. Accept feedback with an open mind and value it for the gift that it truly is. Then, be sure to do something with the feedback you receive so others can see that you’ve heard them. Create a safe place for your team members to be heard and challenge convention. Reinforce that you’ll be sharing feedback with them because you care – and ask them to do the same in order to invest in your own success as a leader.
- Build Trust and Be Trustworthy – Everything hinges on trust. Be genuine in your interactions and any feedback you offer. Model what you expect and walk your talk.
- Be a Continuous Learner – Continue to observe and inherit the best behaviors of the most successful leaders around you. Flex your style based on the feedback you receive. Find ways to press yourself – and those around you – further.
People would follow a great leader through fire. They’ll move mountains and, if inspired, raise the output of the entire team when a great leader is at the helm. I ask you what you’re doing today to help people achieve their goals and dreams – and what are you doing to create an environment where people will thrive through your leadership.
Photo Credit: It’s Time Texas
