Effective leader or delegate?
11/07/2019What does it mean to be a good leader?
Does a good leader just give orders solely and demanding the implementation of the entrusted task? This is the most common mistake among people performing this responsible function. In cinematography, this topic is widely raised in many films, e.g. war or historical, where we have a "villain" who gives orders to his subordinates (to strengthen the effect, orders are often transmitted in the form of a shout), and then ... screams at them even more accounting for the failure to achieve the effect. The positive character of the so-called "good guy" acts as the real leader we are talking about. Things such as setting directions, giving advice or inspiration are just the beginning of his duties. A leader in a team must inspire trust and respect, but beware ... MUST DEserve it. As the classic says: "People must respect you ... and have to have something for it." Let's try to name and describe several features of a true leader:
- Shares his Vision
The leader knows exactly where he is going, has a guideline and a clear path of action. If employees see this particular image, they will understand it well, they will enthusiastically follow their leader. If they see the sense of their actions and that each action brings them closer to a common goal, they will be eagerly involved in creative action.
- Gives an example
This is the best way to obtain credibility and respect in the eyes of subordinates. It is also the best method of learning (also in terms of raising children) - learning by example. Simply put, if a leader requires a lot from his subordinates, he must first demand a lot from himself. If his actions are consistent with what he says, such an attitude will be rewarded by employees with respect and willingly want to follow in his footsteps.
- First and foremost, Ethics
Being guided by ethical values is one of the basic features of a good leader. By taking these values into account in maintaining, building relationships or making decisions, the leader sets a specific code of conduct for his team. What is good and what is bad intuitively know, but distinguishing one from the other requires true wisdom.
- Communication is the key.
She should be clear, concise and very tactful. It's definitely more than just listening to others and answering your questions. Sharing valuable information, raising important issues, discussing new ideas, or even clearing up misunderstandings is an absolute "must" in the world of the leader. The best leaders use communication methods to inspire and add creative energy to their subordinates.
- Difficult decisions
You should be prepared that someone must finally make difficult decisions and that responsibility rests with the leader. Often, regardless of whether he has the full spectrum of the situation and how much time he has to decide. Whenever possible, when faced with difficult issues, the goal of the action must be defined at the very beginning. Estimating the likelihood of different consequences and ensuring possible alternatives is an excellent organization plan. It is extremely important, however, that regardless of the effects of the decision, the leader always takes full responsibility.
The leader's actions towards the team must be thought out and targeted individually at each member. He must know their strengths, weaknesses, "look after" them, strengthening these positive qualities and limiting the weaker ones to the maximum. The usual, simplest: "good work!" Will significantly increase the morale of the employee, and thus the whole team. People want to influence what they do and they want to believe that what they do every day just makes sense.