5 WAYS TO BE A BETTER LEADER
As you complete your studies and enter the workplace, you’ll find yourself in contact - either directly or indirectly - with those in leadership roles, such as managers and directors .However, leadership generally isn’t a quality people are born with, in fact, it’s a learned skill that can take years to master effectively. An important incentive to learn leadership skills is increased employability, so we’ve pulled together some of the 5 best practices for leadership.
Have Humility
Arrogance is never an aspirational quality in a leader, and in fact the opposite is true. No matter your position, it’s important to practice humility; people want to know that their leader understands them and can relate to their issues.
Lead by Example
When asking others to perform a task, it’s important to show that it’s something you’d be willing to do yourself. For example, if you would like others to tidy after themselves in communal spaces, be proactive in cleaning after yourself. Not only does this show others that you practice what you preach, but it also builds trust and respect.
Communicate Effectively
Without communication, things can quickly fall apart. Effective communication paves the way for strong relationships, with changes of misunderstandings becoming fewer. Great leaders know how to speak to people, regardless of personality types, to convey ideas and produce solutions.
Seek Mentorship
As the old saying goes, we are standing on the shoulders of giants. While Isaac Newton wasn’t referring to leaders, this very much applies here. Acknowledging your shortcomings and being open and willing to learn from those with more experience and knowledge than you will always pay dividends further down the road. Great leaders are often bred by being great followers.
Respect Boundaries
When it comes to people, communicating your boundaries and when/if it’s appropriate to cross them is key. While being humble is a key characteristic of a leader, it’s also important to let people know that you practice boundaries that can’t be crossed.