They say some people are born a leader, while others just have to make do as something else. Make no bones about it – leaders are something else, something unique, something organic.
If one was to scrutinize each and every successful leader under the sun, some regular habits would appear. As you may have guessed, we’ve started to jot down some of these habits through this page – as we sum up the five big habits that all successful leaders have.
Let Everyone know their Expectations
Whether it’s their employees or the press (the latter dependent on the type of business) – great leaders will always communicate their expectations.
In terms of their employees, this is crucial as everyone needs to be on the same page. It keeps people focused, all working to the same goal.
In terms of the press, this can be for a whole magnitude of reasons. It might be done for legal information purposes, to showcase that the company is on an upward spiral or anything else along those lines. You’ve just got to read about Infor, and the rest of Charles Phillips’ business affairs, to see the sterling benefits that can occur by regular communicating and informing the press of expectations. In this case, the market has immediately learned Infor’s plans – and exactly why they are taking a certain pathway. It’s an example of perfect leadership.
Allow Others to Speak their Mind
They might be a leader, but that doesn’t mean to say that they are always right. In fact, the very best leaders out there will take on feedback from absolutely everyone involved in the project.
While there is sometimes fear which surrounds leaders due to their status, the best in the business are able to make everyone around them feel completely safe. What this means is that a completely transparent environment is created – one which allows people to speak their mind and share their own perspective on how things are going.
The best leaders appreciate that two heads are better than one – even if that one head has the big job title.
Constantly Measure Performance – and Reward it
Regardless of the industry, performance needs to be regularly measured. It’s the only way to see if things are truly working and allows everyone to see just how a task is either good or bad.
Not only this, but performance needs to be rewarded. If it is clear that someone has gone the extra mile, the best leaders recognize this instantly and will reward. It’s the best way to replicate similar performance in the future and ultimately, cause a company to move in that illusive upward spiral.
Always Handing Out Feedback
Similarly, both good and bad feedback is invaluable. Not only is it an excellent method to measure performance, it’s a way in which everyone working within the leader’s team understand that he or she is paying attention to them.
It promotes trust – something which is invaluable for any leader.
Using Strengths Appropriately
In other words, great leaders have the habit of delegating fantastically. As you may have noticed through most of the points which have been looked at, many revolve around people-skills.
A great leader knows each individual’s capabilities and will delegate accordingly. They know how to make best of the talent available, in a bid to navigate whatever circumstances have come their way.