It’s difficult to define what makes a great leader. Part of your job will be to work as a “jack of all trades” so that you can get many different things done. Each situation is unique, and you must learn what it’s going to take for you to become a better leader.
Your team should understand your vision. You need to find a way to incorporate your values and your mission into your daily tasks. You must clarify the visions you have for success, and show subordinates the valuable role they play. This will also help you find a direction and build stronger connections within your team.
An effective leader is able to inspire creativity. Taking risks and thinking outside the box can lead to bigger and better things. Go down the path less traveled sometimes. Remain open to new ideas, even those that do not appear feasible at the moment. It will help your team be creative and inspire better work.
A great way to increase your leadership skill is by being decisive. A leader is where the buck stops, and these important decisions are usually left up to you to make. Listen to what different members of your team suggest when you encounter a problem and choose the solution that will benefit everyone.
A great leadership quality to have is determination. When problems arise, the entire team will look to you to gauge their own reactions. You should focus on a positive outcome rather than any obstacles that may be in the way. When you model persistence and a positive attitude, your team is inspired to pick themselves up and work toward their goals again.
Great business leaders never compromise their morals to be more competitive. If the competition is doing something that makes you uncomfortable, find an alternative to compete. There are ways to compete without lowering your standards. If you can come up with a new way to compete, you’ll feel a lot better with your decision.
You must be able to communicate through words effectively. Leading isn’t only about presenting yourself. You also have to show others what you mean through words. If you use poor grammar and misspell words, it’ll be tough for your business partners or colleagues to look at you as a leader. Take the time to read what you send to other before you press the submit button or sending something through the mail.
Leadership is something you have to find your own way in, so you can guide the people that you’re leading to do their very best. Taking the things you have learned and making them part of your routine will accomplish wonders. Being humble will make you a good leader.
There are tremendous opportunities for small businesses and social entrepreneurs to support their communities through community foundations, donor advised funds and other means of giving back. Find the neighborhoods in San Mateo County where you can make the most impact on the environment in the community.
