Monday, April 25, 2016

10 Powerful ways to Improve your Leadership ability



10 Powerful ways to Improve your Leadership ability  

Written by Ms Arthie Moore

I have been fascinated for many years, reading, listening to and enjoying the various Leaders talk about Leadership traits and even had the privilege of becoming a certified John Maxwell Leadership Coach in the process. And the greatest lessons that keep coming up are these profoundly simple teachings that keep resonating with my soul.  

Ø Leaders listen.

Ø They are open-minded.

Ø They take advice.

Ø They are inclusive.

Ø They are risk takers.

Ø They are good decision makers. They make decisions that positively grow and impact everyone around them.

Ø Good leaders are constantly looking for ways to improve themselves through self development.

Ø They are good communicators. Sharing their vision in a powerful way.

Ø They are influential and trustworthy.

Ø They ask great questions.

In an ever changing environment filled with tons of information at the touch of a button, it is very easy to get lost in becoming technically good as a Leader.

But being able to leave a legacy is one of the most powerful and most sought after effects that most people aspire to without even realising it.

Our professional environment that is now filled with vastly diverse cultures, religions, ages, experiences, education levels and wisdoms, creates a lot of pressure and is a daunting task for a Leader to work out how to harness every individual’s potential and be influential at the same time.

So what is the solution?

It is simple. As a good listener, a thoughtful Leader will be able to ask great questions and engage with each individual in a way that leaves them feeling respected, honoured and valued for who they are.

People are willing to adjust to a professional environment that values who they are as long as they feel heard. Remember, most people want to know that you care about them, then only will they care about what you want.

We hear that statement all the time, but how does it actually translate into a practical everyday interaction of effectiveness?

Here are some simple tips to look out for:

ü Celebrate the abilities of your people. No, you do not have to always give out incentives to make people work and become productive. If you are a good leader that has some influence, then your people will want to be high achievers. However, the key would be to make sure that you acknowledge and highlight every achievement no matter how small.

ü Create a circle of wisdom where you ask the question and listen to the wisdom, guidance and knowledge of your people. Then only do you take a decision that could impact everyone.

ü Encourage an environment where people come to you with solutions to their problems and implement the one that works best for them as well as the company.

ü Be flexible. That does not mean that you implement every single suggestion, but listening to different points of view actually opens your mind to different possibilities.

ü Use technology. Now this may seem dumb now, but if you really used Social Media platforms to your benefit, then you are make yourself more accessible.

o   Create a private Facebook page that brags about your people’s achievements. Allow people to post their thoughts. Create an environment of positivity. Encourage updates that are uplifting, thought provoking, inspirational and boosts morale. In other words…get with the times.

o   Use Whatsapp, Mixit, LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter to improve your ability to communicate with everyone at anytime.

o   Youtube mass messages to all of your people so that you ensure it is clear and understood. Straight from the horse’s mouth right J

ü Be human. Be approachable. Be gentle. Be kind. Be compassionate. Be strong. Be clear. Be you!!

But above all, my best advice will always be this. If you truly enjoy what you do and you honour your people, then you will always be on a journey filled with adventure, self discovery and fulfilment.

Leaving a legacy does not have to be a physical building. It is can be more powerful than that! You can create Leaders who will build more people through your influence, guidance and leadership.

We welcome you to join us on our journey too J Let’s celebrate humanity together.

Until the next time, take care and have fun!

Ms Arthie Moore




www.arthiemoore.com