Being an effective leader is not only about issuing commands or meeting deadlines. It’s actually about motivating your team to give their all to whatever it is they do. So what is it that these leaders have done differently? This article will parse the information into the little things that you can do to make a real difference.
Lead by Doing
If you desire to have a committed, loyal team, then you have to be that person. When they observe that you work hard and keep trying, other people frequently emulate your behavior, so great leaders lead by example.
It’s not about being perfect, but about showing that you’re in it with them. Leaders showing the values in their actions lead to trust, which is at the center of how outstanding leaders inspire throughout all levels of an organization.
Keep Communication Real
Good leaders talk clearly. Great leaders also listen. But they create the space for people also to be able to share their thoughts, share their ideas, and even share their concerns.
When communication goes both ways, there is less confusion and more trust. People know they can speak and will not be judged. It’s that openness that facilitates all of you working better together and communicates what it does through authentic communication.
Notice the Little Things
You don’t need a major accomplishment to express gratitude. Successful leaders take notice of daily efforts, including the small stuff. A “nice one” or a short shout or two can really help keep you motivated and show how great leaders inspire through appreciation.
It shows you care. All people seek the hope that their work will really be meaningful to them, and when that hope exists, they tend to remain focused and loyal. Recognition, in any form—be it a note, a coffee, or simply respectful words—can go a long way toward making someone’s day.
Support Growth
Not only do they care about the next deadline—they think about each person’s destiny as well. Whether it’s giving a new challenge to someone, suggesting a training course, or offering mentorship, all of them are always willing to help others do better.
That’s not to say it isn’t about pushing people really far. It’s an act of showing you believe in their potential. And who knows? When people feel like they are growing, they tend to stay more engaged and excited about their work, which demonstrates how leaders can naturally motivate their teams.
Care About People
Empathy may sound soft, but it’s one of the most powerful tools a leader possesses. Understanding the experiences of others significantly contributes to the inspiration of great leaders, who foster a safe and human environment.
When leaders demonstrate empathy, it makes for a safe space. People want to feel they’re not only a job title; they’re also human. And there, trust deepens.
Share the Bigger Picture
People don’t want to feel as if they’re only checking off boxes. They want to understand the “why” of the work. Great leaders make that clear. They discuss plans for where the team is going and how each person’s role contributes to that bigger picture.
A vision provides people with something to shoot for. It elevates the mundane and makes the everyday seem somewhat more significant. This clarity reinforces how outstanding leaders inspire teams to stay motivated and engaged.
The Kind of Leadership That Sticks
Ultimately, true leadership is not about your position or power. At the end of the day, true leadership is not about where you sit on the organizational chart or how much power you have. It’s about the way you treat others and the way you make them feel.
Exceptional leaders are more concerned with forming relationships than they are with asserting control. While they may not always get it right, they are always there to try. It is this investment that people remember.
