By Jill Romford on Wednesday, 11 September 2024
Category: Leadership

The Secret: What Great Leaders Know and Do

​ In "The Secret What Great Leaders Know and Do," leadership emerges as the driving force behind a company's success and employee satisfaction. 

Effective leaders are not just figureheads—they inspire, motivate, and align their teams toward achieving business goals. Through their actions, words, and behaviors, great leaders create environments where employees feel valued and are empowered to do their best work. Leadership goes beyond directing; it's about setting the tone for the entire organization, driving morale, reducing turnover, and boosting productivity. 

This document will explore the essential leadership behaviors that distinguish great leaders and how cultivating these traits can lead to a thriving workplace.

Understanding Leadership Fundamentals

Leadership and management influence and guide individuals or groups toward achieving common goals.The question is what is leadership in management?

The term "leader" can conjure up a wide range of images, such as:


Leadership involves not just motivating people to work together effectively, but also fostering an environment where team members feel empowered to contribute their best. This empowerment is a key aspect that sets leaders apart from managers, whose role often focuses more on maintaining order and enforcing rules.

The concept of leadership has evolved significantly over time. Historically, leadership was often associated with authority and control, where leaders were seen as individuals who wielded power over others. However, modern leadership theories emphasize the importance of empathy, a quality that makes team members feel understood and cared for, collaboration, and adaptability. 

Today, effective leadership is recognized as a critical factor in the success of organizations, communities, and even nations. Leaders are not just those in positions of power; they can be found at all levels, influencing and guiding from within any group. That is why leadership skills in the workplace are an absolute must-have. 

An Example of Leadership

David Greene's strategic vision and exceptional leadership during his tenure as CEO of Apex Innovations from 1990 to 2010 were truly inspiring. Under his guidance, the company undertook numerous strategic acquisitions in rapidly growing markets, expanding Apex's market value from $15 million to over $500 million by the time he retired.

Greene believed that embracing change was essential in a constantly evolving world. He pushed managers and employees to innovate and adapt continuously, encouraging them to reinvent their roles and processes to drive the company forward and enhance productivity.

Greene was committed to hiring managers who shared his forward-thinking vision for Apex and had the energy and enthusiasm to motivate their teams. He valued leaders who could generate and develop innovative ideas and turn them into actionable strategies. Importantly, he emphasized the integral role of managers in working closely with their teams, gaining firsthand insight into their tasks and the reasons behind them.

Under Greene's leadership, both managers and employees were empowered, leading to significant improvements in product quality and customer satisfaction and a substantial increase in the company's profitability. This empowerment fostered a culture of motivation and engagement throughout the company. 

The Evolution of Leadership

 Leadership has been a subject of study for centuries, with early theories focusing on the traits and characteristics of great leaders, such as courage, decisiveness, and intelligence. This "Great Man" theory of leadership posited that leaders were born, not made, and that only certain individuals possessed the innate qualities necessary to lead.

As societies and organizations became more complex, leadership theories evolved to include behavioral and situational models. Behavioral theories examined the actions and behaviors that leaders exhibit, rather than their inherent traits. Situational theories, on the other hand, emphasized the importance of context, suggesting that effective leadership depends on the situation at hand and that different circumstances require different leadership styles.

In recent decades, transformational and servant leadership models have gained prominence. Transformational leadership focuses on inspiring and motivating followers to achieve their full potential, while servant leadership emphasizes the leader's role in serving the needs of their team and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration.

Why is Leadership important

 Leadership is a critical component of any successful organization, community, or team. The importance of leadership cannot be overstated, as it plays a vital role in guiding individuals and groups toward achieving shared goals. 

Effective leadership is not just about managing tasks; it's about inspiring and empowering people to reach their full potential. Understanding the various leadership styles, such as autocratic, democratic, transformational, and servant leadership], and how they impact the dynamics of a team or organization is essential for anyone aspiring to lead effectively. Each style has its unique characteristics and can influence team dynamics in different ways.

The Importance of Leadership 

 At its core, leadership is about influence. A leader influences others to follow a vision, embrace change, and achieve more than they might have thought possible. 

The importance of leadership lies in its ability to bring people together, align their efforts with organizational objectives, and drive progress. In every aspect of life—whether in business, education, government, or non-profit organizations—strong leadership is the difference between stagnation and progress.

One of the primary reasons why leadership is important is its role in providing direction. Without leadership, teams can become disorganized, lack motivation, and struggle to achieve their goals. A good leader sets clear goals and provides a roadmap for how those goals can be achieved. This clarity of direction helps team members understand their roles and responsibilities, increasing productivity and efficiency.

Moreover, leadership is crucial for fostering a positive organizational culture. Leaders shape the values, norms, and behaviors that define an organization's culture. A leader who emphasizes respect, integrity, and collaboration will cultivate a work environment where these values are lived out daily. This, in turn, leads to higher levels of employee satisfaction, lower turnover rates, and a more cohesive team.

Leadership is also important because it drives innovation and change. Organizations must constantly adapt to new challenges and opportunities in today's fast-paced world. Effective leaders are those who can anticipate change, embrace it, and guide their teams through it. They encourage creativity and innovation, allowing their teams to explore new ideas and solutions. 

However, leadership has its challenges. Managing conflicts, dealing with resistance to change, and maintaining team morale during tough times are some of the hurdles that leaders often face. Overcoming these challenges is a critical component of long-term success.

What leaders know is that effective communication and strong relationships are key to success.

What Makes a Good Leader? 

So An effective leader is someone who:


Leadership encompasses the abilities required to accomplish these tasks. What leaders are is a source of inspiration and guidance, driving others toward achieving common goals.

What great service leaders know and do comes from consistently meeting customer needs and empowering their teams to deliver exceptional experiences.

So, what makes great leaders great? Great leaders are distinguished by their ability to inspire and motivate others, their clear vision and strategic thinking, their adaptability in the face of challenges, and their commitment to personal integrity and ethical decision-making. They build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and empower their teams to reach their full potential. Above all, great leaders lead by example, earning the trust and respect of those they guide.

Let's explore each of these elements in greater depth.

Understanding Leadership Styles 

 Leadership is not a one-size-fits-all concept. There are various leadership styles, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these different leadership styles is not just beneficial, it's essential. The effectiveness of a leader often depends on the situation and the people they are leading, and this understanding can make all the difference.

The Impact of Leadership Styles

The leadership style a leader adopts can significantly impact the performance and morale of their team. For example, a transformational leader might inspire a team to innovate and achieve extraordinary results, while an autocratic leader might quickly make critical decisions during a crisis but risk alienating their team in the long run.

Different leadership styles also affect how conflict is managed within a team. A democratic leader might encourage open discussion and collaborative problem-solving, leading to a more harmonious work environment. In contrast, an autocratic leader might suppress dissent, which could lead to unresolved issues and long-term dissatisfaction.

The influence of leadership styles on organizational culture is significant. 

A servant leader, for example, is likely to foster a culture of trust and mutual respect where team members feel valued and supported. 

This type of culture can lead to higher levels of employee engagement and retention. In contrast, a transactional leader may create a more competitive environment where employees are primarily motivated by rewards and fear of punishment. 

Great leaders and why they succeed often comes down to their ability to inspire, communicate effectively, and drive meaningful change.

What is a newer approach to leadership?

This new leadership style, often called "supportive leadership," is grounded in a simple yet powerful concept: instead of merely directing their teams, leaders may achieve more by actively serving those they lead. The primary emphasis is on how leaders can alleviate the challenges faced by their team members—whether physical, mental, or emotional. This approach empowers team members, inspiring them to take ownership of their work and contribute to the team's success.

Supportive leaders embody empathy, compassion, vulnerability, gratitude, self-awareness, and self-care. 

They show appreciation and provide unwavering support to their employees, fostering a sense of psychological safety. It's the leaders' responsibility to create this environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and the open discussion of issues. It also involves recognizing and celebrating small victories on the path to larger goals and enhancing overall well-being through stronger human connections—both of which are crucial for optimal team performance.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jonathan Steele, the CEO of Biovax, demonstrated the effectiveness of the supportive leadership style. 

In response to the intensified race to develop a vaccine, he took decisive actions, such as increasing the frequency of executive meetings and adopting a decentralized model. These actions allowed teams to operate more rapidly and autonomously, leading to an unprecedented speed of delivery. The outcome was remarkable: Biovax successfully met its ambitious target of delivering 100 million vaccine doses within a year.

How can leaders communicate effectively?

​Effective communication is one of the most crucial skills for leaders, as it directly impacts how well they can guide, inspire, and influence their teams. Leaders who communicate effectively foster trust, clarity, and motivation among their team members, which ultimately leads to better performance and success. Here's how leaders can communicate effectively:

#1. Be Clear and Concise

  • Effective leaders avoid ambiguity in their messages. They communicate their vision, goals, and expectations clearly, ensuring that everyone understands the direction and objectives.
  • While it's important to provide enough information, being overly verbose can lead to confusion or loss of interest. Leaders should get to the point and focus on the key message.
  • #2. Listen Actively

  • Effective communication is a two-way process. Leaders must not only speak but also listen to their team members. Active listening involves fully concentrating, understanding, and responding to what is being said.
  • Leaders should create an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their ideas, concerns, and feedback. This not only builds trust but also provides valuable insights that can improve decision-making.
  • #3. Adapt to the Audience

  • Different people prefer different communication styles. Leaders should tailor their communication based on the needs and preferences of their audience, whether it's a group meeting, a one-on-one conversation, or a written message.
  • Depending on the context and urgency, leaders should choose the most effective medium for communication—whether it's face-to-face meetings, emails, phone calls, or instant messaging.
  • #4. Be Open and Transparent

  • Keeping team members informed about changes, challenges, and successes helps to build trust. Transparency fosters an environment of honesty and openness, which is essential for a strong team dynamic.
  • Leaders should be open about their own mistakes and take responsibility. This humility encourages others to do the same and creates a culture of continuous improvement.
  • #5. Provide Constructive Feedback 

  • Feedback should be constructive and focused on specific actions or behaviors, rather than on the individual. Leaders should highlight what is being done well and provide actionable suggestions for improvement.
  • Feedback is most effective when it is given in a timely manner. Addressing issues or praising achievements shortly after they occur ensures that the feedback is relevant and impactful.
  • #6. Communicate with Empathy

  • Leaders should be aware of the emotions of their team members and communicate with empathy. Understanding and acknowledging how others feel can help in delivering messages that are more likely to be received positively.
  • Leaders should express concern for their team members' well-being and be supportive, especially during challenging times. This builds a stronger emotional connection and loyalty.
  • #7. Use Storytelling 

  • Leaders can use storytelling to make complex ideas more relatable and memorable. Sharing personal experiences or relevant anecdotes can help illustrate points and make the message more engaging.
  • Stories that highlight successes, challenges overcome, or the impact of the team's work can inspire and motivate team members to stay committed to their goals.
  • #8. Be Consistent

  •  Leaders should strive to be consistent in their messaging to avoid confusion. Inconsistent communication can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of trust.
  • Important messages should be reinforced regularly to ensure that they are understood and remembered. Repetition helps to solidify the message and align the team's efforts.
  • #9. Non-Verbal Communication

  • Non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, gestures, and posture play a significant role in communication. Leaders should be mindful of their body language as it can reinforce or contradict their verbal messages.
  • Maintaining appropriate eye contact shows confidence and attentiveness, helping to establish a connection with the audience.
  • #10. Follow Up

  • After communicating important information, leaders should check for understanding to ensure that the message was received as intended. This can be done by asking questions or summarizing key points.
  • Effective leaders follow up on communication, especially on decisions or plans that have been discussed. Keeping the team informed of progress or changes reinforces the leader's commitment to transparency.
  • What are the 5 Leadership Challenges

    Leadership is a rewarding yet demanding responsibility that requires a unique set of skills and attributes. 

    While the position of a leader often comes with prestige and influence, it also presents significant challenges that can test even the most experienced individuals. Navigating these challenges effectively is crucial for a leader's success and the success of the team or organization they lead. In this article, we will explore five common leadership challenges and provide insights on how to overcome them. 

    #1. Balancing Short-Term Goals with Long-Term Vision 

    One of the most significant challenges for leaders is balancing the immediate demands of short-term objectives with the overarching vision for long-term success. Leaders are often pressured to deliver quick results, which can lead to a focus on short-term gains at the expense of strategic, long-term planning.

    #2. Managing and Motivating Diverse Teams

     In today's global and multicultural work environment, leaders often find themselves managing teams with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. While diversity can lead to innovation and creativity, it can also present challenges in terms of communication, cohesion, and motivation.

    #3. Making Difficult Decisions

    Leaders are often faced with tough decisions that can have significant impacts on their teams and organizations. These decisions may involve resource allocation, resolving conflicts, or responding to unexpected challenges. The difficulty lies in making choices that are both ethically sound and beneficial for the organization.

    #4. Leading Through Change

     Change is inevitable in any organization, and it can be one of the most challenging aspects of leadership. Whether it's a shift in company strategy, the implementation of new technology, or responding to market disruptions, leading a team through change requires resilience and strong communication skills.

    #5. Maintaining Personal Well-being

    Leadership roles are demanding and can take a toll on a leader's personal well-being. The pressure to perform, manage teams, and meet organizational goals can lead to stress, burnout, and a work-life imbalance.

    7 Secret Leadership Behaviors

    #1.Behavior: Communication

    Effective communication is at the heart of great leadership. Leaders must be able to articulate their vision, set clear expectations, and provide feedback that helps their team grow. Good communication goes beyond just talking—it involves active listening, where leaders take the time to understand the perspectives and concerns of others. 

    Non-verbal communication, such as body language and tone of voice, is equally important, as these cues can either reinforce or undermine the message being conveyed. 

    By honing both verbal and non-verbal communication skills, leaders can build stronger relationships with their teams, fostering collaboration and trust. When expectations are clear and feedback is constructive, teams are more likely to feel supported, understood, and motivated to excel.  

    #2.Behavior: Empathy  

    Empathy is a powerful tool for building trust and engagement within a team. Leaders who demonstrate empathy are better able to understand the needs, emotions, and motivations of their employees. This ability to put oneself in another's shoes helps leaders make more informed decisions and build deeper connections with their teams. 

    Listening carefully and genuinely trying to understand different perspectives are key aspects of practicing empathy. 

    While empathy may not come naturally to everyone, it is a skill that can be developed with practice. By being more aware of their team's emotions and challenges, leaders can create a positive work environment where individuals feel valued, leading to higher levels of engagement and productivity.

    #3.Behavior: Decision-Making  

    Effective decision-making is a critical component of leadership. Leaders are often faced with choices that carry significant consequences for their teams, individuals, and the organization as a whole. High-stakes decisions require careful consideration of various factors, including potential risks and outcomes. 

    Leaders must weigh the needs of the company alongside the well-being of their team members, striving to make decisions that balance the best interests of all stakeholders. 

    Being decisive does not mean making choices hastily; rather, it involves gathering information, seeking input when necessary, and making informed decisions that move the organization forward. Great leaders understand that every decision has an impact, and they are prepared to take responsibility for the outcomes, whether positive or negative.

    #4.Behavior: Accountability  

    Accountability is one of the most vital traits of effective leadership. It refers to the responsibility leaders take for their decisions, actions, and the outcomes they generate—whether they succeed or fail. True leaders don't pass the blame when things go wrong; instead, they own their choices and work to correct any issues that arise. 

    This kind of transparency fosters trust and respect among team members, as they can see their leaders taking responsibility and leading by example. 

    By cultivating a culture of accountability, leaders create an environment where honesty and integrity are valued, encouraging team members to take ownership of their own work and collaborate more effectively toward shared goals.

    #5.Behavior: Adaptability  

      In a fast-changing world, adaptability is essential for any leader. The ability to adjust to new circumstances, technologies, and challenges is what separates good leaders from great ones. Adaptable leaders embrace a growth mindset, recognizing that flexibility and openness to change are critical to long-term success. 

    They are willing to take calculated risks, learn from failures, and adjust strategies as needed to meet evolving business demands. By inspiring their teams to be open to new ideas and innovative approaches, adaptable leaders foster creativity and resilience. This empowers teams to thrive in uncertain environments and turn challenges into opportunities for growth and success.

    #6.Behavior: Confidence  

    Confidence is a cornerstone of strong leadership. A confident leader provides direction, makes decisions with authority, and instills trust within their team. 

    While confidence can be an innate trait, it is often developed through experience, self-reflection, and constructive feedback. By recognizing their strengths and areas for improvement, leaders can build the confidence necessary to lead effectively. 

    Confident leaders inspire others to believe in their vision and follow their guidance. When leaders exude confidence, it not only enhances their credibility but also encourages team members to approach their work with greater assurance and commitment, knowing they have strong leadership supporting them.

    #7.Behavior: Vision  

    Visionary leadership is key to inspiring and motivating teams. A leader with a clear and compelling vision can guide their team toward a shared future, helping individuals understand how their efforts contribute to larger organizational goals. Visionary leaders don't just dictate tasks—they paint a picture of what success looks like and how everyone can play a part in achieving it. 

    This sense of purpose energizes teams, giving them a reason to stay engaged and committed to their work. 

    A well-communicated vision aligns all efforts in the same direction, ensuring that team members are working cohesively toward common objectives. Moreover, a leader's vision is often contagious; when employees see their leader's passion and confidence in the future, they are more likely to buy into that vision themselves. This collective belief in the vision helps create a motivated, aligned workforce that drives organizational success.

    How to Become a Better Leader

    Leadership is not just about holding a position of authority; it's about inspiring, guiding, and influencing others to achieve common goals. 

    Whether you're a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, there's always room for improvement. Becoming a better leader requires a commitment to self-development, understanding your team, and continually refining your skills. Here are some practical steps to help you on this journey, supported by examples and statistics.

    Self-awareness is the foundation of effective leadership. Understanding your strengths, weaknesses, and how your behaviour affects others is crucial for personal growth. According to a study by Korn Ferry, leaders with high self-awareness are 33% more likely to be successful in their roles.

    Clear and effective communication is essential for any leader. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, decreased morale, and reduced productivity. A survey by Holmes found that companies with effective communication strategies had 47% higher returns to shareholders.

    Great leaders empower their teams by delegating tasks and trusting them to make decisions. According to a Gallup study, managers who excel at delegation can generate 33% higher revenue than those who don't.

    A positive work culture can significantly impact employee satisfaction, retention, and performance. Research by Deloitte found that 94% of executives and 88% of employees believe a distinct workplace culture is essential to business success.

    Leadership is an evolving skill that requires ongoing education and adaptation. A report by Harvard Business Review revealed that 90% of the top-performing CEOs read at least one book per month, and many attend regular leadership training.

    Becoming a better leader is a continuous process that involves self-reflection, skill development, and a genuine commitment to your team's well-being. By developing self-awareness, improving communication, empowering others, fostering a positive culture, and committing to lifelong learning, you can enhance your leadership abilities and impact your organization. Remember, leadership is not a destination but a journey, and each step you take brings you closer to becoming the leader you aspire to be.

    Frequently Asked Questions on Becoming a Better Leader in the Workplace

    1. What are the key traits of an effective workplace leader? 

    An effective workplace leader typically exhibits several key traits, including:

    2. How can I improve my communication skills as a leader?

    Improving communication skills involves:

    3. How do I handle conflicts within my team?

    Handling conflicts effectively requires:

    4. How can I motivate my team?

    Motivating a team involves:

    5. What strategies can I use to develop my leadership skills?

    To develop leadership skills:

    By addressing these frequently asked questions and implementing practical strategies, you can enhance your effectiveness as a leader and positively impact your workplace environment.

    Conclusion

    The leadership behaviors outlined—communication, empathy, decision-making, accountability, adaptability, confidence, and vision—are fundamental to creating strong, effective leaders. These traits are not only critical for personal leadership development but also for fostering productive and engaged teams. 

    Cultivating these behaviors within leadership helps to build a work culture rooted in trust, transparency, and collaboration. Great leaders who embody these qualities inspire their teams to perform at their best, resulting in a healthier and more dynamic workplace. 

    By continuously nurturing these behaviors, organizations can ensure that they are led by individuals who are equipped to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and drive long-term success.

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