1. They Invest in Their Team
Great leaders understand the importance of professional development and maximizing the strengths of their team. They recognize the more knowledgeable and skilled their team members are, the more effective and less stressful they will become. This ultimately leads to increased productivity, success, and revenue.
2. They are Firm Yet Friendly
There are times when a leader has to be firm, direct, and take corrective action. A great leader understands this is not the time to flex his or her muscles, title, or position. Instead, they are humble and correct in a way that builds and not tear down. In the event, they have to terminate that individual, a great leader will allow the employee to leave with a sense of dignity instead of embarrassment.
3. Work with the Team
A great leader takes time and effort to get involved with the teamwork. Instead of sitting behind a desk in their office, they engage in conversations and participate in projects (especially when a deadline is approaching). These actions demonstrate they are a part of the team and not above it.
4. Communicate Effectively
A great leader will make certain everyone understands the department expectations. They will take the time to listen to your concerns and address them accordingly.
5. Empathetic & Relational
Great leaders understand that his/her team members have real life and work-related issues as well as unexpected situations. They will work with you within reason to support you will you deal with such matters. A great leader cares about the whole person.
6. Plan and Execute
A great leader will share his vision for the team and work diligently to assign task based on the team members strengths. Through effective communication he or she ensures that all players are on board to secure a win for the team, not just the leader.
7. Accountability
A great leader understands he/she is accountable to his superiors as well as those he or she is assigned to lead. He/she knows he must be certain their team must have the tools and resources required to complete they assignments accurately. They also understand, they are responsible for reporting any changes or challenges that may have a negative impact on the business.
8. Emotionally Intelligent
In order for a leader to effectively lead. He/she must have a high level of emotional intelligence. Otherwise they can easily misinterpret a team member having a bad day as being insubordinate or disrespectful. Or worse, they would have a bad day and without realizing it, take their frustrations out on others.