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9 Proven Steps To Effective Leadership

9 Proven Steps To Effective Leadership
by Levi King

Effective leadership requires more than a strong personality. Let's take a look at some qualities worth striving for.

A few months back, I offered some advice on how to be a terrible leader. I knew whereof I wrote, because I've both endured bad bosses and been one myself on occasion.

Thankfully, I learned valuable lessons from their mistakes as well as my own. I discovered that leadership is a skill as much as an inborn talent, and can be practiced like anything else.

Here are 9 suggestions for upping your leadership game, starting today:

1. Be vulnerable and authentic.
We've all heard the cliche: "It's lonely at the top." It doesn't have to be. Be yourself with your employees. Admit when you don't know something. Ask for feedback and advice, and act on what you're told.

You won't lose face by doing so--you'll gain trust and respect. Your energy and confidence will increase as you cease playing the fearless leader and become comfortable in your own skin.

2. Make your mistakes visible to your team.
If you goof up, own it. It doesn't matter what kind of goof--whether you overruled a good idea with a bad one, or hurt someone's feelings with an unkind remark, acknowledge it. Spell out what you did wrong and how you plan on avoiding a repeat. Do exactly what you'd expect an employee to do in the same situation.

3. Proactively apologize.
When you do make mistakes, say that you're sorry. Don't put it off, and err on the side of whomever you're apologizing to.

They're a person, so personalize it. Don't be content to toss off an email. They'll remember the gesture for a long time to come.

4. Recognize team members who don't seek recognition.
Some employees call attention to their achievements, while others are content to simply pull on their work boots and shine without any fanfare. Keep a close eye out for the latter, and praise the hell out of them.

Ask your managers to do the same. These people deserve recognition, even if their personalities don't demand it.

Read full article on Inc.