Tag: leadership
Leading isn’t a grandiose gesture
The smallest actions can have the greatest impact. Lead by example may sound trite, but it’s true.
Trying to encourage others to follow a set path? The way you act and exist in the world either endears others to you or creates boundaries between who you say you are and the goals you hope to achieve.
The small, daily actions are the most difficult. Yet these “little things” can also be the most rewarding:
A pause before a response.
Treating others with respect.
Making breakfast for a loved one.
Creating platforms for others to succeed.
This is how you show leadership. Day in and day out, through actions and words.
4 ways to turn delegation into an art form
1. No one can do it like you
Before delegating assignments or tasks, accept the fact the work will not be exactly as you would have done it. This could end up in your favor (a new perspective, an interesting idea, a better method) or drive you crazy (inconsistencies, mistakes, imperfections). Only after you relinquish control will you be able to move forward with your projects.
2. Divvy mindfully
Spending time analyzing your workload and deciding who can take on responsibilities will save you headache and effort in the long run. Work that doesn’t require specific knowledge or experience can be easily handed off; complex projects that require expertise may require up-front training in order to be completed successfully. Be sure to pass the right work onto the right people.
3. Clear communication
Before any hours are clocked, take time to set expectations and discuss the goals at hand. Maintain open lines of communication throughout project completion and be sure directions are easy to understand and follow.
4. Provide leeway
Trusting colleagues and staff instills confidence. When employees feel valued, they are more likely to make smart, strong choices. When you delegate, you display trust in someone else’s capabilities and skills. Micromanaging, however, cuts off autonomy and discourages creative thinking. Allow room for ambition and insight; you may be pleasantly surprised with the results.
Yes, you can choose
The people around you have a direct impact on your vision, your drive, your goals, your performance, and the way you dream. Their passion can inspire you to reach for more, or their apathy can dissuade you from continuing progress.
If you recognize the importance of carefully choosing friends, consider the responsibility when identifying leaders, company mastheads, presidents.