Learning how to lead
There are political figureheads, business people, activists and even celebrities who will go down in history as renowned leaders. Martin Luther King, Oprah Winfrey, Mahatma Ghandi and Mother Theresa are all names that are synonymous with powerful leaders. But leadership does not have to be grand, nor does it have to be an innate quality that is born in some and absent in others.
We can admire and respect these world leaders from afar, but often it is the quiet leaders or those closer to us that have the most impact on our lives. Whether it comes from your team leader at work, your mother or your third grade teacher, leaders are important in moulding us into the people we want to become and determining how we run our day-to-day lives.
In a business sense, leadership is not only important in terms of team building and creating a nice working environment, but it is crucial in getting the results needed. If you find yourself in a leadership role but are not confidant that you have the ability to lead, there are ways to improve your leadership and learn how to lead effectively. There is a long list of leadership qualities that change depending on different situations. For the business world, here are a few important leadership qualities:
– Communication skills. By definition, a leader is someone who influences and guides a group of people towards a goal. It is vital that a leader be able to communicate with and instruct their team clearly. It is also important to keep your staff members informed on what is going on within the business.
– Good listening skills. One of the most important leadership skills is the ability to listen to your team. By listening to the ideas, feedback or problems of your staff you are better able to know them and understand how they work. By proving yourself a good listener, you also become more approachable and create an open and forthcoming team which is conducive to good work.
– Lead by example. You can’t expect others to work hard if you don’t, or to produce good work if that is not your priority. Leading by example is an important skill – as the old adage goes ‘actions speak louder than words’.
– Delegation. As a leader, you must be able to distribute tasks to other staff members. The fear that someone else might not be able to complete a task as well as you can impede your ability to lead. Rather, delegate tasks and help others with them, offering advice and support.
– Know how to give and take criticism. Leadership is about giving criticism and guidance in a constructive manner, and being able to take onboard criticism or suggestions directed at you.
Now you know some of the skills that make a good leader, you can actively pursue acquiring them. To put these leadership qualities into action, it may be worth undertaking some leadership training, which can teach you ways to help you become the kind of leader you want to be.
The importance of team building can help develop leadership qualities.
Processing your request, Please wait....
