Recently, a young friend of mine shared a workplace experience that prompted a reflection on what truly makes a great leader. She found herself at odds with her manager, leading to a two-week silence—communication reduced to mere emails. This situation highlighted to me the fundamental elements of effective leadership that need to be established prior to considering leading others.
Communication is Key
Leadership is about fostering an open, honest, and respectful channel of communication. Silence rarely resolves issues; it often exacerbates them. A good leader actively engages in dialogue, listens, and provides constructive feedback, fostering an environment where every voice is heard and valued.
Empathy and Understanding
Great leaders empathise with their team members. They understand that everyone has their own challenges and perspectives. They take the time to understand situations before reacting, ensuring their responses are not solely based on assumptions.
Conflict Resolution
Disagreements are natural in any workplace. A good leader doesn’t avoid conflicts but addresses them promptly and respectfully. They mediate discussions, finding common ground and solutions that benefit the team as a whole.
Building Trust
Trust is the cornerstone of any successful team. Leaders who show consistency, reliability, and integrity earn the trust of their team members. Trust empowers individuals to take risks, make decisions, and contribute at their fullest potential.
Growth Mindset
Exceptional leaders foster a culture of continuous growth and learning. They encourage their team to embrace challenges as opportunities for development, promoting a mindset where mistakes are seen as stepping stones to success.
My friend’s experience serves as a reminder that leadership isn’t just about titles or positions; it’s about actions and attitudes that inspire, motivate, and empower others. Let’s strive to embody these qualities in our respective roles and create environments where everyone feels respected, heard, and valued.
What are your thoughts on these leadership qualities?
Wendy Ellery-Jones | Business Manager