Gallup reports employee engagement hit a 10-year low in 2024, with only 31% of employees engaged, according to Inc. Leadership is not just about intelligence, authority and experience. Leaders need skills that build trust and keep people connected and engaged.
In an Inc. article, author Christie Smith, founder of the Humanity Studio, shares the following “power skills” all modern leaders need to succeed in the current work environment.
- Suspend self-interest. Leaders must have integrity and make decisions that are transparent, fair and driven by values. Smith says: “Trust is the foundation of high-performing teams, and it starts with leaders who put people and purpose ahead of personal gain. Great leaders do not seek control for its own sake. They focus on serving their teams, ensuring that decisions benefit the organization and its people—not just their personal ambitions.”
- Master curiosity and context. Excellent leaders take time to understand their team members’ strengths, motivations and aspirations. Leaders who know their people well can connect them to meaningful work, which boosts engagement, trust and retention.
- Build psychological safety. When employees do not feel comfortable speaking up, sharing ideas and taking risks, they disengage. Great leaders communicate openly, admit their mistakes and encourage honest conversations so people feel valued and heard.
- Stay emotionally agile. When pressure is on, the best leaders do not panic; instead, they adapt, regulating their emotions and engaging their teams to make thoughtful decisions. Smith says: “When leaders stay steady and engage their teams in decision-making, they build trust, even in the toughest moments.”
- Make excellence a habit. Small, consistent actions can lead to long-term transformation. Excellent leaders demonstrate clarity, consistency and commitment daily, which can have strong, lasting effects.
