Leadership tips for 2019!

As we wrap up the final four weeks of 2018, it’s time to look to the future and find ways we can improve. For all the leaders out there, that means becoming the best leader you can be. Here are some ways you can be a better leader in 2019…

Be committed: If you want your employees to be committed to your company’s vision, you must be an example of that yourself. Don’t be afraid to show them how passionate you are about the company and it’s goals.

Teach your pupils: Help your team avoid mistakes by sharing with them the lessons you’ve learned that got you to where you are. Always give constructive feedback. This is not only valuable for your staff, but also helps you hone leadership skills through communicating and connecting.

Bond: Getting to know your employees builds loyalty and trust and lets them know that you care about their personal well-being. As that trust builds, it opens up lines of communication that can prove valuable when making strategic decisions. Just because you’re in charge doesn’t mean you have all the answers.

Promote creativity: Always be open to ideas. Reward employees for thinking outside the box and remember that a little praise can go a long way. Shape your team into one that is always expanding their limits and increasing their value.

Remember that respect is a two-way street: It’s a lot easier to get behind a leader who is in the trenches with you. Show your team that you can roll up your sleeves and help get things done. Understanding what your team does and how hard they work will help develop respect. Also remember that honesty leads to credibility. If you realize you’ve messed up, don’t be afraid to say so.

Be chatty: You can build trust by being approachable and encouraging openness in your office. Listen and give your attention. Employees appreciate a leader who keeps open the lines of communication.

Keep it positive: When things aren’t going your way, it can be tough to stay upbeat. Try to keep a positive view even when things are tough, so your team can embrace their failures and learn from them. A few words of encouragement and an optimistic attitude can quickly turn things around.

Be yourself: If you want to be a good leader, you have to be yourself. Make a list of your strengths and weaknesses. Let your team know who you are and let them help you strengthen those weaknesses.

Push forward: There may not be a more important leadership trait than being a good motivator. Anyone who’s ever watched March Madness knows that every once in a while, the little guy will take down a juggernaut. Raw talent is nice but when a good team is motivated, they can become unstoppable.