How To Be A Great Leader

Here’s the truth – you can only take your small business from good to great if the foundation is solid. And you get a solid foundation by having talented employees lay the groundwork. So, how does a leader attract great employees? By being great first. Here’s how to accomplish that:

• It starts with you. You can’t command the ship if you yourself are unsure of the course and your capabilities. Take a hard look at your strengths and weaknesses. Nurture your strengths, and accept your weaknesses for what they are. Look for employees who are strong where you are weak. This is a more efficient tactic than attempting to be the best at every task.
• Flip the management hierarchy. I’ve had jobs where superiors refer to me as their “assistant”, and I’ve had jobs where superiors refer to me as their “colleague”. I consistently went over and above for the ones who saw me as their equal. When employees know they are valued, their loyalty will never waver.
• Hire the best. Good managers say that one of the best things you can do is hire people smarter than you. It will make your work environment more productive and more pleasant because talent thrives amidst talent. Hire people who challenge each other and challenge you.
• Use positive reinforcement. Motivation is what gives your employees a purpose for coming to work. Start off their day by providing a clear vision for the business, adequate resources for manifesting this vision, and rewards for treating others with respect.

Being a great leader doesn’t require a master’s degree or decades of experience. It’s really as simple as breaking it down into the core principles of holding yourself accountable and fostering an atmosphere of respect and creative talent. Who has seen these suggestions work for your business? Is there anything you would add to the list? Leave a comment below!

tags: Blog