What kind of leader are you? Do you know? Have you ever even asked yourself that question? When I work wtih business owners in my coaching program I work with them to ascertain what type of leader they are. Are you a weak leader? Are you a strong leader? Knowing which one you are can help you motivate your team and move them forward and your business toward higher successes.
Are You A Weak Leader?
Do you make decisions? If you’re so-so when it comes to making decisions — whether you’re paralyzed by fear or whether you’re afraid you won’t get a return on your investment or whether you’re simply thinking, “We’ve never done it that way before… will it work?” If you hesitate to take action, you are showing signs of weakness, regardless of the reasons why you’re hesitating.
When you have to say “no” to a project or idea do you follow that up with, “because we just don’t have the money/time/manpower?” Don’t tie the “no” in with a complaint about a lack in resources. If you have to say no, then do so. Don’t continually complain about a lack of resources or your employee morale is certain to suffer.
When things go wrong do you look for someone or something to blame? Stop! You have to take responsibilty even if it was an underling who made the mistake. As a supervisor or business owner you need to take responsibility for both the good and the bad.
Do you abuse your position of power? Are you a “do as I say, not as I do boss?” If so. Stop! You need to set the bar by which your employees measure their own behaviors. You may have privileges in your leadership role, but don’t take advantage.
Treat others with respect. Don’t intimidate your employees. Don’t be disrespectful to higher-ups.