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July 17, 2018

Five Types of Leaders in the Workplace

No two leaders are the same. With so many different kinds of employees, there needs to be different kinds of leaders suited to their needs. Certain styles of leadership will work for one person, but not another. It’s up to a good leader to determine the style that works best for their team and stick with that. Here are five of the most common types of leaders you’ll see in the workplace.

Transactional

A transactional leader is one who rewards their employees when they reach a certain goal. This type of leader will set goals with their team and use a carrot-and-stick approach to get those goals accomplished. With rewards for good behavior, there are often punishments for bad practices. This style can be effective in the short-term, but most employees won’t feel they can reach their full potential under this rule.

Laissez-faire

Originally an economics term, laissez-faire literally translates to “let them do.” This style of leader is known for their hands-off approach, allowing their employees to take control over their work. This style of leadership is especially effective in creative settings, or when managing very experienced employees. However, this style hinders those that rely on feedback from their supervisor. With no leadership or supervision from a leader, there can be a lack of control and lead to poor production. Research has shown that this style is the least effective and least favorite of employees.

Autocratic

Autocratic leadership is similar to transactional leadership, just to a more extreme level. This type of leader has complete power over their employees and rarely listen to employees or share any power. This type of leadership is common in military environments but does not lead to great results in a corporate workplace. Because these types of work environments have little or no flexibility, it can lead to a high turnover rate and frequently absent employees.

Transformational

Transformational leaders are considered the most desirable among employees. These types of leaders use effective communication to create an intellectually stimulating environment. This style focuses on initiating change in a work environment. This leader sets high expectations and motivates their employees to do more than they originally intended.

Democratic

Democratic leaders put a high value on team input. This style boosts morale because employees get to feel that they have a say in the decision-making process, though ultimately the final decision rests in the hand of the leader. Workers report high levels of job satisfaction in these environments. One downside to this style is that decision-making takes longer, making it an ineffective option for an environment where quick-decision making is crucial.

July 2, 2018

How to Lead When You’re Not the Boss

Even if you’re not in charge, it’s important to demonstrate strong leadership skills in the workplace. By being a leader even when you’re not the boss, management will see that you possess the necessary skills and may keep that in mind when you’re up for a promotion. Here are six ways you can be a leader at work, even if you’re not the boss (yet).

1. Be flexible
Flexibility is one of the most important qualities to have as a leader. Things often don’t go according to plan; you need to be able to adapt to any situation that may arise. When things go astray, people need a leader to look to. This is your time to shine and emerge as that leader. Leaders should also understand there’s more than one way to accomplish a task. They should be open to different work styles and understand the difference between a wrong way to do something, and a different way.

2. Communication is key
A leader needs to be able to communicate one-on-one and in large groups. You aren’t in the position to give instructions, but you can offer advice and feedback when appropriate. Simple appreciation is always appreciated and will help your coworkers to respect and trust you. Leaders must also be clear communicators; they need to make sure everyone understands and there’s no chance for things to be misunderstood.

3. Don’t be a doormat
Because you’re not the boss, people may try to take advantage of you in a way they wouldn’t if you were in charge of them. Don’t let them. Leaders stand up for themselves. Don’t put up with things your boss wouldn’t. This doesn’t mean you should never help others out. Provide favors out of kindness and good for the company, not because you can’t say no.

4. Engage others
An effective team utilizes everyone. A strong leader will seek out the interests and strengths of each team member and do their best to align those with the tasks that need to be completed. Make everyone feel heard and appreciated. If there’s a quieter member on your team, do your best to include them in conversations.

5. Listen
All ideas can be good ideas. Listen to team members and make them feel like part of the group. This is especially important when you’re not the boss; if you aren’t respecting their contributions, they’ll question the leadership role you’ve taken on. If you show everyone you appreciate and value their ideas, they’ll be more accepting of your position. A true leader acknowledges that good ideas come from many different sources.

6. Take risks
Failure is a crucial component to success. When you acknowledge the potential payoff is greater than the risks associated with it, you’re showing strong leadership skills. This doesn’t mean you should jump into a risky endeavor without evaluating the situation first. It means you’ve assessed the situation, are aware of what may happen, and decide the outcome is worth it.

May 8, 2018

How to Become a Better Leader in 3 Simple Steps

Keeping a business thriving requires more than just a solid business plan; you have to be a strong leader to keep your team progressing. Whether you are a novice leading a team for the first time or an experienced CEO, you can become a stronger leader by following these three simple steps.

1. Take total responsibility for yourself.
Most leaders are quick to take responsibility for their successes, but a true leader also needs to own their mistakes and failures. When you make a mistake, apologize and take ownership of it. This sets the tone for your team that the mission is more important than one person’s ego. Own each step of the process: if a member of your team has fallen short, recognize your own role in that failure. Even the most capable team member will fall short if not given proper training, encouragement, and feedback. Keep this in mind when addressing staff issues.

2. Show respect for your team.
It takes mutual respect between a team and their leader to reach goals, so ask questions about your team’s personal life to show your interest in them. Respond thoughtfully to their suggestions and show respect for new ideas. Recognize that you can learn from your team as much as they can learn from you. Humbling yourself actually elevates you as a leader because your team will have greater respect for you and your vision.

3. Make staffing decisions with intention.
Think ahead with each staffing choice you make. Look for the potential in each staff member and make a specific plan to mentor them and foster that potential. Consider promotions thoughtfully and make sure that each person is ready to be moved up before placing them in a role that could be beyond their experience or skill set. If more mentoring is required, take that extra time to coach them with that newly elevated role in mind. If it’s clear that a member of your team isn’t a good fit, let them go. To keep someone on your team who isn’t fitting into the company culture is a disservice to your company and to that team member.

While these three steps are simple in theory, putting them into practice can prove difficult. However, with practice, these steps can guide you toward being an effective leader capable of uniting a team and working toward your goals cohesively.

April 10, 2018

How to Spot & Deal With a Manipulative Leader

In business, leaders are often those who display charisma and enthusiasm. These qualities are crucial in management positions. However, eagerness often hides the more manipulative qualities in a person. Of course, team members are willing to go above and beyond for a manager who boosts their ego. It’s likely hard to spot the difference between true passion and manipulation. Here are some ways to identify and handle a manipulative leader.

Messaging

One of the most concrete ways to notice manipulation from an authority figure is by closely paying attention to their messaging. If it is clear that the deliverance of the message is more important to the leader than the actual message, that is cause for concern. Their energy and delivery should never outshine the importance of what they are trying to get across. Some people walk away from meetings or presentation in awe, likely due to the “awestruck effect” of the display. If you can’t remember the key points of what your leader just shared, their manipulation did its job. Try doing your own research on their presented topics so that you have a well-rounded understanding of the area.

Personal Interactions

Being wary of every encounter with a manipulative leader is key to spotting them. While everyone loves a good compliment, it is one way that devious leaders get you to agree to anything. Professionals often become addicted to approval and seek it out regularly. Manipulative managers are always willing to dish out the kind words but only if you deliver. Supportive leaders coach you through your good and bad times and will compliment your achievements throughout the process. When getting to know your manager, notice if they take the time to appreciate you, even if you don’t deliver.

Problem Solving

A surefire way to pick out a manipulative manager is by observing the problem-solving abilities. Sure, they can put out a fire, professionally, but are they willing to own up to mistakes? Many leaders who have alternative agendas, will avoid facing problems in front of their team. Rather than making it a learning experience for all, they confront problems behind closed doors. A strong leader is not ashamed of mistakes, nor are they afraid to face them head-on. If your manager refuses to address a concern or avoids a challenging topic, follow up with them. Should the situation spiral, it is important to loop in a third party, such as Human Resources.

January 10, 2018

How to Motivate As a Leader During Tough Times

In a professional environment, leaders are often faced with various challenges. Sometimes such difficulties are overcome quickly, while others can take a few months to conquer. Most businesses face some sort of tough time during their existence. These scenarios can often put the most pressure and weight on those in leadership roles. Teams are relying on their managers and superiors to guide them through such hardships and that can take a toll on a person. When in a leadership role, it is crucial to set the tone for your group and do your best to keep them on track. Here are some tips for keeping spirits high, even during a tough span of time.

Transparency

One of the most important qualities a leader can have during rough patches is transparency. Although there may be information that remains within management, being as open and honest with your team as possible give them optimism. Often, people need reassurance through multiple channels. If you can provide them with what they want or need to hear right away, it could alleviate some of the stress and nerves. Being candid can save you from a harder conversation down the line, should things take an unexpected turn.

Remain Positive

One of the worst things a leader can do during a tough time is panic or cause panic. Sometimes, you don’t realize that you are creating such an environment for your team. When you act in a manner different than usual it could result in a trickle-down effect. You might be getting brutal treatment or words from your superiors. However, don’t take the same actions towards your team. Being a leader includes directing your team on how to present themselves. If you are acting out and being demanding, they will likely lose respect and continue to worry.

Importance of Roles

Even when times are not hard, it is so vital to remind employees of their value to the over company. From the most entry-level to upper management, everyone has a role that makes the business thrive, and they need to know it. If there is room for movement within departments, take advantage. It can help to keep people motivated if they are able to take on new responsibilities. If you see someone not fulfilling their duties to the best of their abilities, have an open discussion and find out what they are feeling. Making your team aware of their worth and keeping moral as high as possible should be of the utmost importance to you as a leader.

October 10, 2017

Leadership Blogs You Should Know

Effective leadership is something that people around the world are striving to accomplish. It can often be hard to discover leadership tactics on your own accord. Luckily, there have been many leaders before us, who have experimented and put in place, the most efficient tactics. As we all face challenges in our various leadership roles, it is comforting to know that we are not alone. Those who have chosen to express their opinions and strategies for leadership can often be blind to truly how much they are helping those to come after them. Here are some leadership focused blogs that should be on everyone’s radar.

Michael Hyatt

The former CEO of Thomas Nelson has been giving out advice and wisdom for years. Through his books and podcasts, Michael Hyatt has inspired thousands of people to live out their dream. His main focus is to give people the courage they need in order to succeed. The blog that he has created is known as the “Virtual Mentor” and he has proven time and time again that he knows his stuff when it comes to leadership. Running a large publishing company for so many years has allowed him to see which tactics can help someone truly thrive in this ever-changing world. The blogs have become so successful that he has been able to develop a full-fledged magazine to discuss various leadership topics and challenges. Check out Michael’s site here.

MIT Sloan School

One of the top-rated schools in the country has pushed out some of the best leaders through their Sloan School of Management. Some of the world’s most influential leaders have gone through the ranks at Sloan and their blog is truly proof of why. The online content provides insights an collective wisdom from some of the school’s most prestigious faculty and alumni. Through these blogs, developing leaders can learn about everything from innovation to the proper work-life balance. Even if you aren’t currently in a leadership role, the blog series can help set anyone up for pursuing future goals in a higher role.

Stay tuned for more of the best leadership blogs out there!

August 2, 2017

Leadership Practices Around the World

The world has indeed gotten smaller, and with that has come changes in leadership. Many corporations have gone multinational, both marketing their products and outsourcing labor overseas. This means that leaders are increasingly having to learn to navigate different cultural leadership norms.

Many leaders learn to lead steeped in the values of their home country. They then come to the conclusion that their own country’s method of leadership is the most effective way to run a company or department. These leaders struggle abroad when they discover that different cultures respond differently to different forms of leadership. If they are unable to adopt their style to the needs of their workers, they will not be effective in their position.

Many differences in leadership come down to how a culture views hierarchy within a company. Some cultures value charismatic, autocratic leaders. They trust one capable person to make the best decisions for the company, uncomplicated by too many conflicting viewpoints. Others value democratic leadership that is open to ideas from ground-floor level employees.

Both theories of leadership work, but only because there is an understanding between leaders and their employees that uphold a particular leadership style. If employees expect their leaders to be decisive and autocratic, they will lose faith in a leader that is constantly asking for input. If they expect a leader to be accessible to lower-level employees and open to feedback, they will become frustrated with one who does not live up to that expectation.

For example, in France and Spain, employees like autocratic leaders who motivate their workers through charisma and a clear vision. Top execs may consult with others on big decisions, but the final choice is theirs, and they expect it to be final. This fascination with charismatic, powerful leaders can be seen in history and folk heroes like Napoleon.

On the other hand, in Japan, many suggestions within a company come from the bottom level and are then brought up through the rungs to upper management. The top executives then decide which suggestions to ratify, based on popularity and projected success. Swedish companies put an even heavier emphasis on democracy. Leaders are easily accessible, and important choices are discussed by all before a final decision is made.

In the middle of the road are countries like Germany, which value a clear hierarchy much like the ones seen in France or Spain, but also have routes for feedback to come from lower-level employees to top-level leadership.

Leaders who operate internationally need to have a good understanding of their personal leadership styles, and the ability to flex that style to fit the situation. Leaders new to international leadership often benefit from trainers or advisors in their new country or countries. With practice, truly international leaders can learn to gauge the needs of their workers and adjust their style naturally.

July 12, 2017

The Importance of Delegation

“If you really want to grow as an entrepreneur, you have to learn to delegate.” One of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs, Richard Branson, spoke these wise words. He has taken great strides to achieve all that he has and as many leaders do, Branson hasn’t done it alone. As a leader, it is important to make decisions that will better the organization you represent. Sometimes, those decisions include allowing other to take on some of the responsibilities that you hold. Knowing the right time and situation to delegate is a crucial aspect of successfully leading a group.

Delegation must come in the form of trust. While many leaders choose to delegate to those in manager roles, giving important roles to others is also key. Authoritative figures should be constantly looking at their team, for those who have a potential future in leadership. Even young CEOs and Presidents look to their team with hope for the future. Not only does delegating give responsibility to up and coming employees but it also instills confidence and sense of purpose. For many employees, reward in the workplace comes less from monetary means and more from praise and promotion. Delegating work is a way of showing team members that you, as their leader, trust their work ethic. You also show them that you have faith that they will accomplish the task at hand.

In addition to employee empowerment, delegating also provides relief for those whom the work normally falls upon. As the leader of an entire organization, delegating almost becomes necessary. If your organization begins to develop from its roots, you are going to want someone along for the ride. The path to success should not be lonely. Delegating authority to those around you provides support and enthusiasm. This group of people all want to achieve a common goal of a thriving organization. The alleviation of tedious tasks allows you, the leader, to focus on the pressing matters. The smaller issues, though still important, can then fall to those who support your cause.

A leader will always face challenges. How they handle such situations is a testament to the kind of leader they are. Delegating responsibility to those team members that you trust gives them a sense of purpose while allowing yourself to lead the best organization possible.

June 20, 2017

The Difference Between Leadership and Management

April 1, 2017

Leading Younger, Junior Employees to Excel

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