Tuesday, March 11, 2014

The daily habits of effective leaders


Image Source: iegroup.co.za

Being a leader is no easy feat. Apart from having the responsibility of making important decisions that could make or break a team, leaders are constantly under a microscope, where everything they say and do is scrutinized and met with strong reaction. Thus, it is truly remarkable when a leader excels in his or her duties given the intense pressure he or she is in. However, being a good leader isn’t an innate skill; it requires a daily effort to fully understand what it means to lead.

The following are some habits that successful leaders practice each day:

Image Source: Success.com

Listening - Regardless their industry, one thing is certain: Effective leaders are great listeners. It is by listening to their subordinates’ concerns and opinions that leaders determine the strengths and weaknesses of their team and create a friendly environment that encourages employees to participate and speak up.

Making decisions - Of course, a big part of a leader’s responsibilities is decision making. But what sets apart the effective leaders is their ability to make decisions and stand by them. Effective leaders earn the respect of their employees when they show that they are firm on their beliefs and are not easily swayed.

Trusting their people - Leaders who trust their workers foster a healthy working relationship with them because it makes workers feel that they are important in the team. This goes both ways, too. Leaders should also prove themselves worthy of their workers’ trust as they carry the responsibility of representing the whole team.

Image Source: Expertbusinessadvice.com

By practicing these habits, leaders and those aspiring to be one can ensure the success of their team’s endeavors and create lasting friendships with their workers. 

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