HOW TO BE AN IMPACTFUL LEADER

Titles or corner offices do not measure true leadership. It is how you make people feel, the direction you guide them toward, and the growth you get out of people. When people speak of leaders who made an imprint on their lives, job descriptions are never mentioned. Instead, they recall how that leader made them feel. Here are some principles tohelp you become an effective leader.

Empower instead of micromanaging

Good leaders don’t manage everything. They provide the space in which individuals can flourish independently. It is delegating to your team and leaving them to pursue issues in their own style. Micromanagement will kill creativity, whereas empowerment will develop confidence.

Empowering others means you will get the real results. However, you are also creating leaders of tomorrow. According to an entrepreneur from the Reza Satchu family, a leader who is really effective leaves behind a ripple effect. The people you mentor will continue to inspire others.

Listen more

Delivering inspirational speeches doesn’t earn you respect. Listening can have a true impact. Get in the habit of:

• Asking questions
• Taking breaks
• Listening to what your team members are saying.

Sometimes, the best thing to do as a leader is to give someone all your attention.

Listening is also a way of making sure that you do not miss ideas. Your staff might have the best ideas because they are hands-on with the work. Provideothers with space to be heard. This way, you empower them to be decision makers.

Lead with authenticity

The most influential leaders are genuine. There is no need to have a mask of perfection or to act as if you know everything. As a matter of fact, being willing to say that you do not know something or being willing to share what you have learned because of your mistakes can establish a stronger trust. When your team feels your genuine nature, they will be more inclined to bring their true selves to the table as well.

Authenticity is also about doing what you believe in. When you discuss respect but reject ideas during meetings, people will see the disconnect. You build credibility when your words and actions match. This is the basis of influence.

Communicate clearly and sincerely

People need a sense of direction and purpose. Being clear with your vision helps avoid confusion, whereas being heartfelt with your communication brings commitment. Share not just about the what but also about the why. Your people will realize the extent to which their efforts relate to a greater cause. That encourages them to do more.

And never undervalue the small, human things, such as when:

• You say thank you
• Celebrate success
• Give a pat on the back during the difficult moments.

Small words may sound insignificant. But they tend to be the most memorable.

Keep growing yourself

Last but not least, effective leaders never cease to learn. Read, listen, seek feedback, and be ready to develop. Once you believe that you have made it as a leader, that is when you cease to make a difference. A growth will keep you meek, flexible, and relevant.