Being a respected supervisor takes hard work and skill. Here is a partial listing of characteristics that make a great leader.
Emotional Intelligence
The ability to build relationships is necessary to leadership, meaning interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence (EQ) are paramount. EQ is being able to look at, comprehend, and manage emotions. Deciphering social situations will help you choose the best course of action. Several studies show that a strong EQ can predict a leader’s success. In a study by Egon Zehnder International, an executive search and talent strategy firm, 515 senior executives were analyzed. The study concluded that the most emotionally intelligent were apt to succeed over those that were strongest in IQ or previous experience relevant to the job for which they applied.
Ability to Inspire Others
Exceptional people inspire their colleagues. Even more so when there is an ambitious goal to be reached, looking at the overall vision helps daily activity become more meaningful.
Leads by Example
Great leaders model behavior worthy of emulating. They keep their word, respect the team’s time, and are objective on issues while being emotionally stable. Humor is crucial in making a pleasant office environment; if employees see their managers relax, it allows others to feel more comfortable.
Decisiveness
Good managers are decisive. Whether it’s a minor or major matter, they need to make and communicate decisions quickly. Indecision or deliberation can disrupt team productivity and cause confusion, so having a laser focus and moving things forward is essential.
Employee Empowerment
Exceptional leaders push their employees to reach important decisions on their own. Employees need to feel that they matter and be in an environment where they feel safe to speak up. Good leaders start conversations that empower others. Rather than stepping in and micromanaging, a manager should step in and resolve any problems if necessary.
Reduction of Red Tape
Part of a manager’s job is to clear office politics and red tape so the team can complete their work well. If projects aren’t moving ahead as planned, effective managers ask employees to report the issues and work with them to resolve the problems. Great leaders do not reprimand colleagues for not being up to speed, but instead will remove the blocks holding up the operations. Whether it’s by making sure employees are aligned with other teams or by providing tools to help them, great leaders strive to improve their employees’ work environment.
Clear Expectations
All employees need to know what they’re responsible for. Successful leaders remind them of expectations and the goals they are to meet. It is ideal to move forward with projects only when the project is measurable.
Employee Recognition
Pay raises are great, but recognition is also important. Respected managers praise team members who are doing well. This can be done by stopping them and saying “thanks,” or sending a quick email to communicate a well-done job. When employees feel needed and praised for great work, they’re are likely to keep doing it.
If you would like to be a great leader, developing these skills will start you on the right path.
Image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net/Ambro
