Your Team is your Biggest Strength (or Weakness)
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that behind every great marketing campaign, invariably, is a great team.
Sadly, building one is much harder than it sounds. And of course, this shortage of talent can create a negative ripple effect throughout an organization: 37% percent of workers have left jobs due to poor leadership.
Being exceptional at any endeavor doesn’t happen overnight. You don’t wake up one day and suddenly become a world-renowned basketball player. The same can be said of becoming a great leader.
In fact, being a great team leader is more an art than it is a science, and anyone can become a better, more effective, and more successful leader — you just need time, practice and perseverance.
You can start supporting your team today with these strong leadership habits.
1. Look at the big picture
Sure, you’re busy. You’re running meetings, problem-solving and pushing work through the pipeline. But, as a leader, you also need to step back from the everyday minutia to focus on the horizon.
2. Be decisive and confident
When the time comes to make a decision, make it firmly. You’ll find your team members are naturally drawn to someone who imparts a strong sense of self-confidence, particularly during turbulent times. We know you can do it!
3. Prioritize what is truly important
“Don’t sweat the small stuff.”
An old adage, perhaps, but so true. You know what you need to tackle, so get to it: Make a list of your top priorities and keep them in plain sight. Say no to distractions and busy work, and yes to anything that helps you check those priorities off your list. Sure, you can simultaneously track seemingly small details, as long as they don’t get in the way of your true priorities.
4. Build on your strengths
You know what your strengths are. Make good use of them by taking on projects and tasks that showcase your team’s true talents. Your core strengths will differentiate you from the rest of the pack, allowing you to create your unique brand.
5. Build on the strengths of others
Great teams are also able to quickly recognize the skills and expertise of all their team members. Seek out the knowledge and wisdom of your colleagues and always acknowledge their value. There are lessons all around you if you pay attention and always keep an open mind. Think of your colleagues as your family. Get to know what makes them tick, and what motivates them to achieve.
6. Empower and inspire others
A successful leader empowers employees, granting them the authority to voice their opinions and take ownership of their assignments. You naturally motivate your team by giving everyone an equal shot at opportunities, promotions, assignments, and training. When you act with integrity, you foster loyalty and high morale; in return, you’ll be rewarded with high productivity and low attrition rates.
7. Practice optimism
With a positive, can-do attitude, your optimism can liven up the workplace. Look for ways to passionately stimulate and energize your team. Contrary to conventional wisdom, fun and hard work do not need to be mutually exclusive!
Regardless, feel free to keep these handy tips in constant practice as you build a name for yourself and create a great team around you.
