Several qualities separate people who can lead from people who only hold titles. People aren’t just leaders because that’s what they are called. Leadership is about how you positively interact with other people. Here are 7 things that make leaders:
1. They Don’t Try To Control Other People
Leaders work in the best interests of the people around them. They help people achieve what they need to in the way they need to do it, instead of constantly trying to control them to do everything differently. Giving feedback can be good, but micromanaging is not. Leaders give good advice, but also let others handle things themselves. Trying to control people causes anger and discontent. Serving people can bring respect. Leaders don’t only ask people what they have accomplished, but they also ask about what they need.
2. They Work To Build Trust
Leaders use words and actions to build trust. They make it clear that they trust people and work to show that they are trustworthy too. They don’t just go and immediately check if people did work. They trust them to deliver and then discuss the problem if they don’t. Leaders always do what they tell people they are going to do. They are truthful and follow through on what they say every time. They also give others credit and take responsibility for mistakes.
3. They Don’t Ignore People
Leaders listen to everyone. They are well aware that the voice of everyone on the team matters, and they display that in their actions. They do not only listen to the loudest opinions or the advisors who are the closest. Instead, they focus on taking in the feedback and perspectives of everyone. They listen to others not to respond, but to fully understand their point of view. They do not ignore people. If someone is becoming annoying, they do not act like that person is not there. Instead, they address the issue and at least acknowledge their thoughts. They always ask what others think, and then actually consider their opinions.
4. They Publicly Defend The People Working On Their Team
Leaders publicly defend the words and actions of their team, even when it’s not very comfortable. Not only does this build trust, but it also shows an ability to speak up that is crucial in leadership. Loyalty and trust are two-way streets. Leaders have the back of their team instead of blaming others for everything.
5. They Help People Grow
Leaders give honest feedback and advice. They coach and mentor others. They also challenge their team beyond their limits. They recognize potential and use it to bring their team forward. Leaders show this by learning and encouraging others to learn too. They entrust work to others and promote talent.
6. They Recognize Everyone
Leaders see talent and skill and recognize everyone for their individual strengths. Appreciating others is an important leadership skill. Leaders show that they value the contributions of other people by saying small words of appreciation. Thanking others makes them feel good about themselves, and it encourages a higher quality of work and more engagement. Leaders recognize people frequently, and they make their thanks specific and genuine.
7. They Lead By Example
Leaders put their words into action and show that they mean what they say. They are the first person to show up, take responsibility for mistakes, and be humble. They show their team the kind of behavior they want their team to have. Leadership is not about a title or position. It is about how you conduct yourself. A title gets you the job, but behavior is what makes people look up to you and earns you respect.
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