4 Tips for Effective Leadership

Tuesday, July 26th, 2016

Some people are born leaders, and others work their entire lives to get there—but everyone can use some reminders about what it takes to be a good leader. Here are some tips for effective leadership:

1. Be a good listener. Open your ears to those around you. A good leader listens to ideas, feedback, and constructive criticism. Have an “open door” policy for suggestions. Although you can’t promise that every suggestion will be approved, make it known that you will consider all feedback. Being a good listener will make people feel valued, and will help empower others to want to improve.

2. Pay attention to the people around you. “No man is an island.” In other words, you can’t do your job effectively without people around you to help. In some cases, your co-workers are the reason you got where you are. Some thanks, recognition, and encouragement can go a long way to showing the people around you that you appreciate their contributions. In a school, church, or organization, each link in the chain helps strengthen the team.

3. Practice what you preach. To be an effective leader, you have to do what you say you are going to do. You will lose credibility if you don’t follow through on your commitments. If you can’t keep a promised goal, be open through communication to explain whatever challenges may have prevented you from doing so.

4. Encourage other leaders. There’s room “at the top.” Whether you are leading two people or 200, there is always room to help people develop into their best selves. Help your people grow and flourish. Encourage leadership qualities in everyone in your organization, from the custodial staff to the volunteers to the part-time receptionist.