A leader is someone with the ability to influence and guide people towards a goal or aim. Leaders inspire those around them to strive to do better and to do the right things. Proclaiming someone a leader doesn’t automatically make them a good one. A leader can either be effective or ineffective. The effectiveness of someone’s leadership is a determining factor of either success or failure. Ineffective leaders are poor communicators, do not lead by example, and do not motivate or inspire. Effective leadership is the complete opposite and is what should be worked towards. The information provided below demonstrates how this can be done and done effectively.
Be A Good Communicator
A vital leadership skill is the ability to communicate one’s plans and ideas clearly. Communication is often considered the key to success. Unclear communication makes it hard for followers to perform and complete tasks and plans that are put forth effectively. Poor communication will also make those around the leader feel like they cannot communicate with them progressively about important matters. Poor communication also has the ability to create a great deal of confusion and misunderstanding among individuals within an industry or company.
One such leader, Diego Ruiz Duran, believes good communication involves listening keenly to others and what they have to say and responding appropriately. It also means sharing information clearly, encouraging others to share, and clarifying misunderstandings and questions that may arise. When people know they are listened to and know they can speak openly with someone, it builds trust and respect, which every leader aspires to have. He utilizes open communication and his listening skills to be a leader others can trust.
Lead By Example
It is important as a leader to set the right examples for those that follow them. This builds credibility and respect. People will trust this leader and rally behind their decisions and vision. To do this, a leader must model the behavior that they want people to emulate. If there is a certain standard that is expected of others, the leader should be willing and able to meet those standards. Supporting words with actions makes others willing to follow under that leadership.
Motivate and Inspire
An effective leader needs to boost the morale of their subordinates and those that look up to them when things get challenging or difficult. Being inspiring helps to focus the team on the task and boost their spirits in times of need. Motivating and inspiring teammates can be as simple as offering words of encouragement and letting them know their commitment and work is appreciated. Motivating people helps them to feel valuable. Making them feel valuable makes them excited to work for a leader who does this.
Leadership is not an easy task, nor is it about the leader at all. It is about those entrusted in the leader’s care and how to unlock their potential to achieve under the guidance and care of an effective leader.