Leadership – Page 2

February 11, 2024
Admin
-

Mastering the Art of Dealing with Stubborn Leaders (part 2 of 3)

Developing Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role when you’re dealing with a stubborn leader. It is the ability to comprehend and manage not only your own emotions but also the feelings of others around you. By effectively tuning into the emotional atmosphere during your interactions, you can modify your approach for better results. For example, if you perceive that a leader is on the defensive, it might be best to postpone your discussion for a time when they might be more receptive. Alternatively, if they’re appearing open-minded, grab this opportunity to voice your thoughts.

As you develop your emotional intelligence, you’ll become better equipped at recognizing emotional cues. This skill can be especially helpful in difficult conversations. You’ll be able to identify when emotions are running high and when it might be beneficial to shift the conversation or take a break. Similarly, when you perceive openness or positivity, you can steer the conversation towards productive discussion.

Improving your emotional intelligence doesn’t just make for more successful interactions with stubborn leaders. It enhances your interpersonal skills overall, helping you build stronger relationships and fostering better understanding with everyone you interact with. However, remember that emotional intelligence isn’t something you develop overnight. It requires ongoing effort and practice. It’s about recognizing your emotional reactions and understanding how your emotions affect your actions and decisions. Then, it’s about applying this awareness to your relationships with others.

In dealing with a stubborn leader, your ability to navigate the emotional landscape effectively can be a powerful tool. It allows you to adapt your communication style and approach to resonate better with them. So, nurture your emotional intelligence. You might be surprised by the positive impact it can make on your interactions, not just with stubborn leaders, but in all your relationships at work.

Advocating for Change Constructively

It’s no secret that leaders who are set in their ways may have a tough time embracing change. However, that certainly doesn’t signify that introducing fresh perspectives or suggestions is off the table. The trick lies in how you communicate your proposals for change.

Start by emphasizing the positives – the potential gains and benefits that the proposed change could bring to the team or organization. Clearly articulate how this change could enhance efficiency, boost productivity, or perhaps even foster a more conducive work environment. The objective is to pique their interest and spark their curiosity about what this change could potentially mean in the grand scheme of things.

While highlighting the benefits, it’s equally important to anticipate and address any apprehensions or concerns they may have. Understand that any resistance is likely rooted in their fear of disrupting the status quo or veering into unknown territory. By pre-emptively addressing these fears, you reassure them that you have considered the implications of this change from all angles.

Moreover, framing the change as an opportunity, rather than a threat, can be a game-changer. Paint a picture of the potential growth and improvement that lies on the other side of this change. This can help shift their perspective and make them more amenable to considering your suggestions.

Finally, remember that advocating for change isn’t a one-way street. It involves listening and adapting as much as it does presenting your thoughts. Encourage dialogue and be open to feedback. Let them voice their concerns, suggestions, or amendments. This kind of collaborative approach not only increases the likelihood of them being receptive to the change, but it also builds trust and fosters a stronger working relationship.

In sum, advocating for change constructively is all about bridging the gap between a stubborn leader’s apprehensions and the potential benefits of your proposed changes. It’s about navigating their fears, fueling their curiosity, and promoting a collaborative environment where change isn’t feared but embraced.

February 4, 2024
Admin
-

Mastering the Art of Dealing with Stubborn Leaders (part 1 of 3)

Tags : human psychology Leadership Psychology

Category : Leadership , Psychology

Understanding the Stubborn Leader’s Mindset

To effectively navigate the complexities of interacting with a stubborn leader, a solid understanding of their mindset is paramount. Typically, stubbornness in leaders isn’t born out of spite or ill will. Instead, the driving forces behind their obstinacy could be a fear of change, a penchant for analytical thinking, or a deep-seated need to maintain control. These factors can create a resistance to new ideas and differing viewpoints, leading to a perception of stubbornness.

However, understanding these underlying causes can put you in a better position to empathize and exercise patience when dealing with such leaders. By acknowledging the fears and insecurities that may be fueling their stubbornness, you can tailor your communication strategies to resonate with them more effectively. It’s important to remember that your approach needs to be as much about appreciating their perspective as it is about making them understand yours.

This understanding can act as the foundation for your approach to dealing with a stubborn leader. It can help you anticipate their reactions, understand their motivations, and find common ground. Armed with this insight, you can formulate strategies that respect their mindset while promoting constructive dialogue and progress. It’s not about changing who they are, but about learning to communicate in a way that aligns with their thought process. The goal is to create a positive environment where differing opinions are not seen as threats, but as opportunities for growth and learning.

So, while it may seem challenging to deal with a stubborn leader, understanding their mindset can be a game-changer. It can help transform perceived roadblocks into stepping stones and pave the way for a more harmonious and productive working relationship. Remember, the first step to changing someone’s mind is understanding why they think the way they do.

Strengthening Your Communication Skills

The backbone of navigating a relationship with a stubborn leader lies in effective, open, and respectful communication. Regardless of differences in opinion, the tone of your interactions should remain non-confrontational and respectful. Voicing your viewpoint is crucial, but the manner in which you communicate this can make all the difference. Ensure your statements are clear and your reasoning sound, underlining your arguments with concrete facts and data whenever possible. This will lend credibility to your perspective and may make your leader more receptive to your thoughts.

Yet, this isn’t just about being heard, it’s equally about listening. Practice active listening when your leader speaks, showing them the same courtesy and respect that you’d like to receive. This is not just about being polite but also about understanding their point of view better. By demonstrating that you value their input, you’re building an atmosphere of mutual respect.

However, keep in mind that while it’s important to be assertive, there is a fine line between assertiveness and aggressiveness. Always choose your words carefully and be mindful of your body language. Keep your tone calm and professional, even in situations when you passionately disagree.

Your goal isn’t to win an argument, but to foster understanding and mutual respect. It’s about creating a dialogue, not a debate. So, when faced with a stubborn leader, remember: the quality of your communication can either build bridges or create barriers. The choice is yours.

December 26, 2023
Admin
-

Why does it seem like everyone else’s salary is going up, except for mine?

Tags : Leader leaders Leadership leadership book Manager managing people managing team Mentor psychology of leaders understanding leadership

Category : Leadership , Motivational

We’ve all heard the phrase “work harder, earn more” when it comes to our salaries. However, for many of us, this doesn’t always seem to ring true. Despite putting in extra hours and taking on additional responsibilities, our paychecks often stay the same. So why is it that our salaries aren’t increasing? As frustrating as it may be, the answer is not always as simple as just working harder. In fact, there are a variety of factors that contribute to our pay and understanding them can help us better navigate the often complex world of salaries and compensation.

Understanding the Factors Affecting Salary Increases

When it comes to understanding why our salaries aren’t increasing, it’s important to consider the various factors at play. Factors like company policies, economic conditions, and the value of our skills and experience all have an impact. By understanding these factors, we can better navigate the salary landscape and make informed decisions about our career growth. In the next section, we’ll break down each of these factors and explore how they contribute to our pay rates.

Breaking Down Company Policies and Economic Considerations

When it comes to understanding why our salaries aren’t increasing, it’s important to consider company policies and economic factors. Company policies, such as salary caps or annual raises, can limit how much our pay can increase. Economic conditions, such as a downturn in the industry or a weak job market, can also affect salary growth. By understanding these factors, we can better navigate the salary landscape and manage our expectations for pay increases.

Skills and Experience – How They Affect Your Pay Rate

Your skills and experience play a significant role in determining your pay rate. Employers often value employees who possess specialized skills or have extensive experience in a particular field. The more valuable your skills and experience are to your employer, the more likely you are to receive a higher salary. Additionally, continuous learning and professional development can help enhance your skills and increase your value in the job market, leading to higher earning potential.

What Can You Do To Increase Your Salary?

When it comes to increasing your salary, there are a few strategies you can try. First, consider acquiring new skills or certifications that are in high demand in your industry. This can make you more valuable to employers and increase your earning potential. Additionally, seek out opportunities for professional development and growth within your current job or consider exploring new job opportunities that offer higher pay. Finally, don’t be afraid to negotiate for a higher salary during the hiring process or during performance evaluations. Remember, it’s important to advocate for yourself and your worth in order to increase your salary.

Negotiation Techniques for Higher Pay

When it comes to increasing your salary, negotiation is key. Start by doing your research and knowing your worth in the job market. Be confident and articulate about your value during the negotiation process. Don’t be afraid to ask for a higher salary or additional benefits that you believe you deserve. Be prepared to justify your request with concrete examples of your accomplishments and contributions. Remember, negotiation is a skill that can be learned and practiced, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t succeed the first time. Keep refining your techniques and don’t settle for less than you deserve.

Conclusion:

So, why is it that our salaries aren’t increasing? Well, it’s not always as simple as just working harder. There are many factors at play, such as company policies, economic conditions, and the value of our skills and experience. Understanding these factors can help us navigate the salary landscape and make informed decisions about our career growth. It’s important to continuously learn and develop our skills, seek out opportunities for growth, and advocate for ourselves during negotiations. By taking these steps, we can increase our earning potential and hopefully see our salaries rise.

Read “Grow Your Paycheck” by author Swapnil Modi to get detailed insights on this subject.

If you’re looking for more in-depth information on how to increase your salary, I highly recommend reading “Grow Your Paycheck” by author Swapnil Modi. In this book, you’ll find detailed insights and strategies for navigating the complex world of salaries and compensation. From understanding company policies to mastering negotiation techniques, this book covers it all. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from an expert in the field. Grab your copy of “Grow Your Paycheck” and take your salary to new heights.

November 22, 2023
Admin
-

Maximizing Success through Processes: A Deep Dive into Process-Driven Culture (part 2 of 2)

Tags : Leader leaders Leadership leadership book Manager managing people managing team Mentor psychology of leaders understanding leadership

Category : Leadership

The Interplay between People and Processes: Balancing for Success

Finding the right balance between people and processes is crucial for the success of any organization. While processes provide structure and efficiency, it is the people who execute them. A harmonious interplay between the two is essential. By fostering a supportive culture and valuing employee well-being, organizations can enhance productivity and innovation. However, it is also important to have clear processes in place to ensure consistency and meet objectives. The key lies in finding the sweet spot where people-driven initiatives complement well-defined processes, resulting in a thriving and successful organization.

Key Insights from Case Studies of Successful Process and People Driven Organizations

Through the analysis of various case studies, we can gain valuable insights into the success of both process driven and people driven organizations. These studies have shown that process driven organizations excel in industries where consistency and adherence to predefined processes are crucial, such as manufacturing and logistics. On the other hand, people driven organizations thrive in creative and innovative industries, where employee well-being and growth are essential for success. The key takeaway from these case studies is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The best approach for an organization depends on its unique characteristics, industry, and goals.

If you want to delve deeper into the fascinating world of process driven organizations and people driven ones, I highly recommend reading “The Psychology of Leadership” by author Savyman. This book offers invaluable insights into the interplay between processes and people, and how to strike the right balance for success. With engaging anecdotes and practical strategies, Savyman provides a comprehensive understanding of both approaches and how they can be applied in various industries. So if you’re looking for more insights and a deeper understanding of this age-old debate, be sure to check out “The Psychology of Leadership.”

November 2, 2023
Admin
-

Top 10 Leadership Skills That Every Leader Must Learn

Tags : Leader Leadership Manager managing people managing team Mentor Mentorship

Category : Leadership

1. Visionary Thinking – The ability to set a clear direction and goals for the team.

2. Communication – Effective communication skills to convey ideas and feedback clearly and confidently.

3. Empathy – Understanding team members’ emotions and perspectives and leading with empathy and compassion.

4. Integrity – Consistent behavior that aligns with one’s values and commitments, ensuring trust and credibility.

5. Adaptability – Flexibility to navigate and lead in changing situations and adapt to the dynamic environment.

6. Collaboration – Encouraging collaboration and cooperation to create a sense of unity and shared vision.

7. Problem Solving – Analyzing and resolving complex problems using strategic thinking and creative problem-solving skills.

8. Coaching – Encouraging team members’ professional development through regular coaching and feedback.

9. Decision Making – The ability to make informed and decisive decisions in high-pressure situations.

10. Delegation – Assigning tasks and responsibilities to team members based on their strengths, while maintaining accountability for overall team performance.

As a leader, mastering these skills will help to create a culture of trust, productivity, and continuous growth. The Psychology of Leadership is an indispensable book for aspiring leaders and anyone seeking to improve their understanding of human behavior as a leader. Its valuable insights and practical advice make it a must-read for anyone interested in unlocking their leadership potential. So why wait? Click here to buy your copy today and unlock the key to becoming a true leader.

October 21, 2023
Admin
-

Strategic vs. Visionary Leadership: What Sets Them Apart?

Tags : Leader Leadership Manager managing people managing team Mentorship Psychology

Category : Leadership

Leadership is a crucial aspect of any organization, as it sets the direction, inspires action, and drives success. However, not all leaders are created equal. Some possess a strategic mindset, while others have a visionary outlook. While both types of leaders can be successful in their own right, their approaches and qualities differ significantly. In this blog post, we will explore the difference between a strategic leader and a visionary leader, and how their unique strengths can impact the growth and success of a company. So, let’s dive into the tale of two leaders and uncover the distinction between strategic and visionary leadership.

Understanding the Concept of Leadership

Leadership is more than just a position of authority or power. It encompasses the ability to guide and inspire others towards a common goal. It involves making tough decisions, taking risks, and having a clear vision for the future. Leadership is not limited to those in managerial positions; it can be demonstrated at all levels of an organization. Understanding the concept of leadership is essential in recognizing the importance of effective leadership and its impact on the success of a company. So, let’s explore the intricacies of leadership and how it shapes the course of an organization.

Characteristics and Responsibilities of a Strategic Leader

A strategic leader possesses several key characteristics and assumes specific responsibilities within an organization. Firstly, they have a forward-thinking mindset, constantly analyzing data and trends to anticipate future challenges and opportunities. They are excellent problem solvers, utilizing critical thinking skills to devise effective strategies. A strategic leader also fosters collaboration and encourages innovative thinking within their team. They are accountable for the organization’s overall success and ensure alignment with long-term goals. In summary, a strategic leader combines analytical thinking, effective communication, and a results-oriented approach to drive the growth and success of the company.

The Uniqueness of a Visionary Leader

A visionary leader possesses a unique set of qualities that sets them apart from their strategic counterparts. They have a keen ability to think outside the box and envision possibilities that others may overlook. They are innovative and creative, constantly pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. A visionary leader is able to inspire and motivate others with their bold ideas and contagious enthusiasm. They have a clear sense of purpose and a strong conviction in their vision, which drives them to take risks and pursue ambitious goals. A visionary leader has the power to ignite change and transform organizations in profound ways.

Major Differences between a Strategic Leader and a Visionary Leader

Strategic leaders and visionary leaders may both be effective leaders, but they have distinct differences in their approach and mindset. A strategic leader focuses on analyzing data, anticipating challenges, and developing effective strategies to achieve long-term goals. On the other hand, a visionary leader thinks outside the box, pushes boundaries, and inspires others with their bold ideas and enthusiasm. While strategic leaders excel at problem-solving and fostering collaboration, visionary leaders ignite change and drive organizations towards transformational goals. Understanding these major differences can help organizations identify which leadership style aligns best with their goals and culture.

How Strategic and Visionary Leadership Impact Organizational Success

Strategic and visionary leadership have a significant impact on the success of an organization. Strategic leaders bring a systematic and analytical approach, ensuring that the company is aligned with long-term goals and effectively navigating challenges. On the other hand, visionary leaders drive innovation and inspire others with their bold ideas, pushing the organization towards transformational goals. By combining these two leadership styles, organizations can achieve optimal results. Strategic leaders provide stability and direction, while visionary leaders infuse creativity and drive change. This dynamic combination fosters a culture of growth, adaptability, and ultimately, organizational success.

Embracing a Combination of Both Leadership Styles for Optimal Results

To achieve optimal results, organizations should embrace a combination of both strategic and visionary leadership styles. Strategic leaders provide stability and direction, ensuring the company stays aligned with long-term goals and effectively navigates challenges. On the other hand, visionary leaders infuse creativity and inspire others with their bold ideas, driving the organization towards transformational goals. By combining these two styles, organizations create a dynamic and adaptable culture that fosters growth and ultimately leads to organizational success. It’s about finding the right balance between strategic thinking and visionary innovation to achieve the best possible outcomes for the company.

To gain a profound grasp of leadership psychology, you cannot miss reading, “The Psychology of Leadership” by Savyman. The book delves into the psychological perspectives of effective leaders.

September 19, 2023
Admin
-

A leader can’t always be a ‘Yes Sir’ man

Tags : Leader Leadership Manager managing people managing team Mentor Mentorship Psychology

Category : Leadership

A true leader is someone who possesses an unparalleled level of courage and decisiveness, as well as an unwavering dedication to the goals they set out to achieve. The qualities of a great leader extend far beyond being an excellent communicator, a creative problem solver, and an efficient decision-maker; they also include the ability to be a confident and assertive individual, unafraid to stand up for what they believe in, even if that means going against the grain or saying no to something.

One of the fundamental principles of leadership is that a leader must be able to take a stand when needed and act as the voice of reason in times of crisis or conflict. Being a ‘yes sir’ man would indicate a lack of initiative and an inability to take decisive action, which is not conducive to effective leadership. True leaders possess the necessary skills and confidence to voice their opinion and stand up for their beliefs, even when it means being the dissenting voice in the room.

Leadership is not about being popular, it’s about doing what is right. To truly be an effective leader, one must have the courage to make difficult decisions, the ability to motivate others towards a common goal, and the willingness to take risks. All of these qualities require the leader to sometimes say no or to challenge conventional wisdom. When a leader says yes to everything, they run the risk of becoming nothing more than a passive follower. Saying no, on the other hand, shows strength of character and demonstrates that a leader is willing to take responsibility for the outcome of their decisions.

Additionally, being a ‘yes sir’ man creates a culture where critical thinking is discouraged. Leaders need to encourage debate and discussion in their organizations, even if it means acknowledging weaknesses or faults. By welcoming different perspectives and opinions, leaders create an environment where innovation and creativity thrive, resulting in a more dynamic and productive workforce. Without the ability to say no and challenge the status quo, employees are discouraged from taking risks or proposing new ideas, leading to stagnation and ultimately, failure. In conclusion, a true leader cannot always be a ‘yes sir’ man. Leaders must be able to make tough decisions, even if that means standing up against popular opinion or risking unpopularity. A great leader encourages their employees to think critically and propose new ideas, welcoming debate and differing viewpoints. Only by doing this can they lead their team to success, pushing them towards excellence while instilling a culture of innovation, creativity, and independence. True leadership requires courage, conviction, and the ability to stand up for what is right, even when it’s not the most popular decision. So why wait? Click here to buy your copy today and unlock the key to becoming a true leader.

September 12, 2023
Admin
-

Would you retain an executive having poor performance but excellent leadership skills?

Tags : Leader Leadership Manager managing people managing team Mentor Mentorship

Category : Leadership

When it comes to leading a team, it is essential to have strong leadership skills. These skills include effective communication, delegation, decision-making, and a clear understanding of the organization’s goals and vision. While some executives may possess these skills, they may not always have the best performance. Therefore, the question arises: would you retain an executive with poor performance but excellent leadership skills?

It’s important to note that poor performance can manifest in various ways, including a lack of productivity, missing deadlines, or failing to meet expectations. While these issues may cause concerns, it is vital to look beyond these surface-level problems and assess the overall impact that this executive has on the organization.

First and foremost, an executive with excellent leadership skills can significantly impact the team’s morale and overall productivity. Such a person can inspire their team to work towards the common goal, create a healthy working environment and foster creativity, innovation, and personal growth in employees. This motivation and drive that an executive brings into a team could significantly affect the company’s long-term growth and success. Such a person may create a healthy organizational culture that supports innovation, learning, and diversity, fostering an environment that enables team members to feel respected and empowered.

In contrast, losing a valuable executive due to their poor performance may negatively impact the team’s motivation, creating gaps that lead to productivity issues. It can lead to distrust, disunity, and poor teamwork among team members and negatively affect employee morale.

Furthermore, an executive with excellent leadership skills can often see things beyond what ordinary people do, and they can identify opportunities that others might miss. They may take bold and risky decisions that result in exponential returns to the organization in the long run. As such, such executives may help the company remain competitive and remain on top of the game, particularly in times of uncertainty and tough competition.

It’s essential to provide guidance and help the executive to correct their performance while emphasizing their leadership skills’ significance to the organization. Setting realistic and measurable goals and offering incentives may help in driving better performance. Regular feedback and reviews can identify and highlight areas that require attention.

In conclusion, retaining an executive with excellent leadership skills but poor performance can be a strategic move in building a cohesive and productive team and promoting the overall growth of the organization. As such, the benefits that come with their leadership may outweigh the risks associated with their poor performance, provided that corrective measures are taken to enhance their performance levels. Leaders who invest time and resources in developing these skills should always be held to high standards, with feedback offered, coaching and guidance provided to help achieve better results. In that case, the question should not be whether to retain an executive with excellent leadership skills but how best to retain and develop such leaders for optimal performance. So why wait? Click here to buy your copy today and unlock the key to becoming a true leader.

July 18, 2023
Admin
-

What is the difference between a born leader and a learned leader?

Tags : Leader Leadership Manager managing people managing team Mentor Mentorshio

Category : Leadership

What do we mean when we say someone is a born leader? Does this mean that they are more naturally suited to lead than others, and if so, why? Are there specific personality traits that indicate whether someone could be a born leader? Is there some sort of genetic marker that makes people natural born leaders? Or are they just born lucky? By contrast, what do we mean when we say someone has become a leader through experience or learning? Does this mean that their leadership skills developed as the result of practical experience and education in leadership principles?

Where do born leaders come from?

A born leader is someone who has innate qualities that make them excellent at leading. Great born leaders have natural instincts for leadership, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to learn to be a great leader. For example, good leaders are able to see both sides of an argument or situation, making them good communicators, which can be trained over time.

Is it possible to build leadership skills?

Can leadership skills be built over time or do you have to be born with them? The answer is both. There are some personality traits that can be learned, such as effective communication techniques, but it’s also true that there are inherent qualities in some people that make them more likely to assume leadership roles. By understanding how leadership skills can both come naturally and be developed, we’re better able to spot great leaders—and figure out ways we might develop these skills ourselves.

Is there any combination of both in a manager or CEO?

Yes. You can learn how to be an effective leader, but you are either born with leadership qualities or you aren’t. Although both personality traits matter greatly when it comes to leadership, there are certain characteristics that some people naturally possess. Born leaders, for example, tend to: * Interact well with others * Enjoy taking on challenges * Have high energy levels And although these features may seem inherent, they can also be enhanced through training and experience.

Can leadership be taught?

There’s no doubt that leadership skills can be taught. When you look at successful leaders in any field, it’s easy to see that they’ve been trained to learn how to lead. Even if you have all of your own ideas, it takes practice and experience to become a strong leader. A lack of leadership skills isn’t something that needs to hold you back either; there are courses available for anyone who wants them—from classroom training to management books and self-guided e-learning programs. Don’t worry about not being born with it. You can learn anything you put your mind to—even leadership skills!

With right skills you can lead your team more effectively, click here to learn the psychology of leadership and become an effective leader.

July 11, 2023
Admin
-

How to Improve Your Leadership Skills

Tags : Leader Leadership Manager managing people managing team Mentor

Category : Leadership

How to Improve Your Leadership Skills Do you think that great leaders are born, not made? Think again! Although it’s true that many of the skills of leadership come naturally to some people, anyone can improve their leadership skills with a little practice and effort. In this article, you’ll find out how to improve your leadership skills from the top down and from the bottom up so that you’re well on your way to becoming the leader you want to be—and making everyone around you better in the process.

Start with yourself

The first step to becoming a great leader is ensuring that you are a great leader of yourself. If you do not have any self-control, or if you let your emotions and anxiety get out of control, then you will be a terrible leader of others. Spend some time thinking about your personal characteristics and work on making yourself into a better person first. After all, if you don’t have anything nice to say about anyone, why would anyone want to follow your lead?

Analyze Yourself

If you want to become a better leader, it’s important that you first analyze your current leadership style. Think about some of your team members who work for you (or even teammates you’ve had on sports teams or in other organizations) and consider how well they followed your instructions. What could you have done differently? How can you improve? These are all questions worth asking as part of self-evaluation. You don’t need someone else’s input; as long as there is honesty with yourself, improvement will follow. Once you know where your weak spots are, start working on improving them—even if just by a little bit each day.

Maintain Balance Between Work and Leisure

Being a leader is more than just working hard; it’s also about setting an example for your team by being well-rounded and having interests outside of work. No one likes a micromanager, so take some time to read, relax, or pursue activities that you enjoy. You can even ask your employees for suggestions on how you can improve your leadership skills. Keep in mind that having balance doesn’t mean not working hard—it means making sure that work isn’t all there is to your life. If you spend too much time at work and don’t give yourself enough downtime, burnout is inevitable; but if you take care of yourself and establish healthy boundaries between leisure and labor, everyone will benefit.

Gain Professional Experience

Having professional experience is one of the best ways to improve your leadership skills. A recent study by The Center for Creative Leadership found that those with five years or less of management experience were three times more likely than their counterparts who had worked in management roles for more than 10 years to say they do not feel ready to lead (55% vs. 19%). Similarly, 70% of those surveyed said they would invest in developing leaders at lower levels if it meant retaining top talent; 59% said junior employees are better suited for growing into leadership roles. Combine these figures with research from Gallup showing that millennials have a higher interest rate in becoming CEO compared with other generations, and you can see why gaining professional experience as early as possible is crucial for anyone hoping to enter a leadership role.

Get Mentors

Whether you want to improve your leadership skills or even become a leader, it’s crucial that you surround yourself with people who can help shape and mold you into a better professional. Talk with friends, family members and coworkers about someone they admire and why. Then approach that person to see if they’re willing to be a mentor. The best part? Mentoring doesn’t have to be time-consuming: You can share 10 minutes every few weeks about what’s going on in your life and get feedback for whatever is concerning you at the moment. As long as you’re making time for mentorship, it should help not only with leadership skills but also with self-improvement in general!

Ask Questions

The first step in improving your leadership skills is asking questions. And not just any questions—thoughtful ones that prompt you to explore your true motivations, goals, and interests. When it comes to self-improvement, there’s nothing more important than understanding yourself, which means identifying what you want out of life. If you don’t know where you want to be in five years, now’s a good time to figure it out; if you have an idea but aren’t sure how to get there (or why), ask questions like: How would I know when I am successful? What are my strengths? What motivates me? Does leadership appeal or intimidate me?

Believe in Yourself and Others Will Follow

The business world today is competitive and demanding. Leaders are constantly being called upon to do more with less. To excel, you must become an inspirational leader who can motivate your employees by encouraging them, teaching them and believing in them. This doesn’t happen overnight; it takes time, effort and patience. The first step toward becoming a better leader is learning how to improve yourself first. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes—you won’t get better without trying new things and making mistakes along the way!

Click here to identify the principles of leadership and learn how they act & behave.

« Previous Page — Next Page »

Mastering the Art of Dealing with Stubborn Leaders (part 2 of 3)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Archives