How to be an effective leader?
In today’s time, leadership is a sought-after trait even beyond organisational roles. It plays an important part in all aspects of life — in communities and at workplaces. A leader with a growth mindset helps lift and guide others to bring out their best. If you are wondering how you can become an effective leader, fret not! Acquiring these qualities will give you the results you seek — personally as well as professionally.
Clear vision that aligns the team
Do you remember the names of great leaders in history such as Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr, etc.? I am sure the answer will be a yes, but do you know how they were able to achieve their dreams and make a significant impact? It was because they had a clear vision of what they wanted. A clarity of vision and purpose helps align everyone in the team towards a common objective, empowering them to work efficiently together. No matter where you are or what position you hold, if you have clarity on what you want to achieve, you can be an effective leader.
Good communication is a must for an effective leader
“Great leaders communicate, and great communicators lead,” said author and motivational speaker Simon Sinek. Communication is not only about speaking but also about listening.
Effective speaking:
If you have feedback for someone in the team, set up a one-on-one call or in-person meeting with that person to communicate your message effectively. Transparent communication can build trust and long-term connections. Also, as a leader, get to know more about their aspirations so that you can guide them and help them select the right path where they can flourish.
Effective listening:
Most people do not listen with the intent to understand, they listen with the intent to reply. Leaders who do not listen will eventually be surrounded by people who have nothing to say. If you are a team leader, there is a team waiting to be heard. If you are a politician or a leader in your family, some people need your help and guidance.
As I mentioned earlier, anyone can be a leader at any given time and place. Leadership is not limited to a workplace or a political party, this quality is useful everywhere in life. Leadership is a quality that comes with a great mindset, not with a designation. So, listen carefully to the people that follow you and you will be able to solve 50% of their problems just by paying attention to them.
Believe in your team and encourage them
Never discourage anyone in front of others. Also, don’t judge people for their mistakes. There is not a single person on this plant who never makes mistakes. However, the one who learns from them and makes conscious efforts to correct them needs to be appreciated. Your discouraging words can destroy a person’s confidence and trust in you and can have a long-term effect on them. At the same time, your empowering thoughts can boost their confidence and give them a new perspective on how to be a better person or leader. Don’t be an arrogant or a ruthless leader as people are always watching you and learning from you. Be the one who motivates others so that people who surround you get inspired by you to become better in every way, every day.
A leader celebrates success
As an effective leader, you must take out time to recognise your team’s efforts and celebrate their achievements, both big and small. This will give them a sense of accomplishment and is crucial to keep them motivated. When you celebrate with your team members, they know that their work is being recognised. They will put more efforts to deliver quality work without any follow-ups and stress.
Say no to micromanagement to be an effective leader
Micromanagement hinders productivity and growth. It creates a lot of anxiety and stress among the employees. You must select the right people for the task and give them the room to do their job. Give your team the independence to do things on their own as this will also ignite responsibility and accountability in them. Be a supportive leader who creates a healthy environment.
Always show empathy
Empathy is the most important trait for a successful leader. It’s a superpower where you understand your team’s needs, fears, and dreams. When you connect with them empathically, you develop a bond that drives long-term collaboration and innovation. Respond to your team at a human level. It opens the door to mutual respect as well.
Leadership is much more than simply making decisions and enjoying an ego boost. An effective leader knows that real success comes when the team is united, motivated, and inspired towards a common goal.
