Over the years the role of a manager has become less focused on “managing” and task delegating, and more focused on setting proper examples for employees and helping them develop using various leadership skills. Many organizations are now training their “managers” with leadership in mind; to foster and develop their skills and ultimately help improve the organization overall. If you’re in a management role, or you’re aspiring to be, here are a few key ways to transform yourself from a traditional manager to an exceptional leader.
Always Take Responsibility for You and Your Team
As a leader, an essential part of the development of both you and your employees is learning how to take responsibility for the things that happen. Sometimes mistakes are made, and things go wrong. Rather than singling out someone who may have made a mistake, take responsibility with the employee and work with them to make the proper connections. A good leader helps build employees skills and fosters their growth within the company.
Set Examples
Leaders always focus on leading by example. In other words, you should be doing the same as what you expect of your employees. If employees are expected to get to work at a specific time, as a leader, you should be doing the same. Setting the right example helps employees meet their expectations, as well as holds your entire team, including yourself, accountable for their actions.
Focus on Development
Development is a huge component of running a successful team or even an entire organization. A key leadership skill is knowing how to help develop your team members by way of training, coaching, and teaching. Focus on each employee as an individual, and recognize their strengths, as well as their weaknesses. Map out ways you can help further develop their strengths, and helpful ways you can address and improve overall weaknesses. No employee is perfect; however, with the right tools, you can play a key role in developing successful team members that hold bright futures within your organization.
Share and Give Credit
Similar to taking responsibility for mistakes or things that can potentially go wrong, an effective leader knows how to share, and give credit when it’s due. There will be numerous occasions where team goals will be met, or an individual will reach a specific goal. As a leader, you deserve credit, and so do your employees. Avoid taking the credit for the good things that happen without showing recognition to your team members. The best way to celebrate success, is together as a team!