Effective leadership is so important. Research has shown it’s associated with high morale, peak performance, and successful outcomes. Effective leaders guide, motivate, support, and empower the people that they manage. It’s not an easy task, but it’s an essential one.

Leadership is a skill that can be learned and developed. But if you’re new to your leadership position, it can be difficult to know where to begin. You’d like to motivate and engage your employees, but how should you go about doing it? According to author Marcel Schwantes, you should focus on these seven things:

  1. Give your employees a sense of purpose – Regularly remind your employees that the work they do is important and makes a difference in people’s lives. People tend to feel more creative, focused, and positive about their work if they feel like it has real purpose.
  2. Show that you care – You need to gain your employees’ trust and respect by putting their needs before your own, and helping out however you can. Employees who feel like their manager treats them fairly and cares about their concerns are more productive and dedicated to their work.
  3. Make the workplace a positive environment – Don’t try to scare your employees into doing what you want. Create an environment in which people feel safe. You want your employees to feel like they can take risks, and openly share their ideas and opinions.
  4. Be clear about what you expect – Your employees should know exactly what you expect them to do. Be clear and consistent in your message and provide clarification if necessary.
  5. Offer rewards – If your employees successfully meet (or exceed) your expectations, reward them. It’s very motivating!
  6. Help your employees to develop their skills – Take the time to guide and support your employees. Answer their questions and give them advice when they ask for it. Although coaching takes effort, it’s worth it. It will help your employees to be more effective and productive.
  7. Empower your employees – Trust in the skills and knowledge that they bring to the table. And allow them to make their own decisions. They’ll realize that you view them as valuable and respected members of the team, and they’ll feel more engaged and invested in their work.

 

Schwantes, M. (2017, May 9). How do you know someone is an exceptional leader? Look for any of these 7 signs. Inc. Retrieved from https://www.inc.com/marcel-schwantes/how-do-you-know-someone-is-an-exceptional-leader-look-for-any-of-these-8-signs.html?cid=hmmore