Leadership is about more than managing people; good leaders are self-aware and work hard to form relationships and make connections.
Fast Company shares the following skills leaders should use in the workplace and in daily life.
- Be humble. Good leaders must lead with humility and be willing to be wrong, listen and learn. For example, rather than starting a meeting with your ideas and then asking for input, emphasize the need to explore all possible solutions and be willing to admit your idea may not be the best.
- Truly collaborate. True collaboration requires you to present your view as one possibility among many and ask others about their desires, concerns or standards. Examine your own assumptions and be open to other perspectives.
- Think beyond the script. Many leaders stick with safe conversational patterns, but considering the unfamiliar can help spark creativity and innovation. Allow yourself to explore possibilities and use your imagination.
- Explore alternatives. It often can feel as though decisions must be made quickly and action must be taken immediately. It is important to have discussions and ask what else could be possible.
- Do not make promises you cannot keep. You may feel compelled to quickly say “yes” when someone makes a request, but it is important to be sure you can follow through. Broken promises can harm carefully built trust. First, take the time to ask questions to ensure you understand the person’s needs, goals and expectations. Then, decide whether you will be able to follow through.
