Effective leadership goes beyond outward-facing skills such as managing people and growing organisations. What matters is mastering the ‘inner game’ of introspection. Here are some concrete ways to do so.
When your team knows what you expect from them and most importantly, why, they move ahead with clarity in their minds, their perspective, then aligns with the reason why they are doing what they are doing. This mindset and purpose is what keeps them aligned to the overall goals and vision of the organisation.
A powerful team is one where every individual has the ability to develop ideas and opinions. Any individual will be open to developing ideas only if he knows that they would be respected and acknowledged. So while you have your own ideas and expectations for the ideas to be implemented, always be willing to absorb new ideas. This keeps the team on the lookout for new ideas which someone else may miss just because of a different perspective. This also motivates the team to think and keep learning.
While you set expectations for the behaviour and team vision, be flexible to invite opinions and ideas.
All ideas may not be execution friendly or may need a different time and resources to even be considered when it comes to practically rolling them out. So, don’t take rejection personally. When you share an idea, know very well, that it may be ahead of its time, not practical for current execution or totally not possible. BUT, what the process does is set the road for clarity and certainty about what you want and where you want to go.
- Develop a culture that nourishes new ideas and opinions. Be open to experimentations. Invite the team to brainstorm frequently so that they are able to learn and widen their horizons.
Respect every individual for who they are and what they bring to the table.
Oftentimes leaders tend to compare individuals in the same team with aspects to speed, discipline, presentation, personality and apparent display of commitment. . Unconsciously and eventually they create a rift among the members. It is very important to realise that every individual in a team brings his own talent and capabilities on the table, which cannot be duplicated by the other person – find those, and acknowledge them. Every individual has their own way of working and an approach to being productive and efficient. Always respect that individuality. - Establish clear roles and responsibilities so every individual knows what is expected of them. Even if there is an overlap, at least they will have clarity as to what is expected from their time and they can focus on working towards their deliverables. Everyone wants to do a good job and be productive and find joy and pride in the results they create. When they have clear direction and directives, that expression comes with ease and minimal errors.
- Effective communication with the team and within the team.
Communication is one of the biggest driving forces of any company. It is the sole determinant of success. When you communicate your vision, purpose, expectations, goals, achievements, and setbacks with your team, they know exactly where they stand as an individual and as a team member. It helps them have an idea about their positioning and what is required of them. Communication within a team creates an environment of trust and faith. - Diversify if that’s what serves your purpose.
Your team members should be an entity in themselves. Develop a team that covers your blind spots for you. Have a team that belongs to different backgrounds, origins, and mindsets. When there is diversity in the team, it automatically nurtures an environment of growth. You will be in the presence of different mindsets and perspectives. For every problem solving you will have not one, but several minds working in different directions. Just imagine what wonders it makes to the development of your vision and goals.
If someone doesn’t perform well, train them first! Understand what’s causing the inefficiency or decline in their productivity. Invest your time in people, and also be mindful of the changes that come about as a result of your efforts. Allow them the chance for change and growth and improvement before you take action to sever ties. You will be looked upon as a leader and a personality they would like to emulate and follow. When there, you know you have built a powerful team.
Authored by
Priya Kumar, an Internationally Acclaimed Motivational Speaker, and Bestselling Indian Author of 13 Inspirational Books. She is the only Indian Author who has won 42 International Awards for her books.
