Not everyone is a natural-born leader. For some, it takes time and effort to learn how to gain the trust and respect of those whose work you monitor and direct. There are different styles of leadership and management, but the most effective in this role continue to develop skills and experience to become even better at their jobs. Here are a few tips to help you become a stronger leader and manager.
Be a Good Listener
Managers should continue to learn from the people around them, no matter their role or position. Observe how other managers handle challenging situations. Listen to your unit employees’ suggestions and concerns. Keep an eye on the entire process to which your unit contributes to get an idea of the big picture, not just your limited role in it. Continue to learn by absorbing information and ideas from those around you in the organization and beyond. Most importantly, learn to listen to criticism with a humble ear. These skills will help you to grow and will show that you are willing to be part of the team, not just the head of it.
Network With Other Leaders
Connect with other leaders in your company as well as online or in the local community. Join a leadership group to discuss principles and problems associated with leaders in your profession. Participate in round tables or local business group projects to see how they handle various situations. Adopt some of their strategies to see if they work at your company. Get a mentor with whom you can discuss key topics. The more you can learn from like-minded individuals with more experience, the better off you will be in the future.
Continue Professional Development
Get involved in advanced training that can help you move to the next level of leadership. Consider programs like heart transformation development that addresses leadership from your core values and beliefs. Be open-minded in taking training that you may feel is unessential for you but good for the organization, or even training that you may not think you need but was recommended by someone else. By setting the example, you may subtly encourage your unit employees to undertake professional development as well.
Learn From Evaluation and Feedback
Be open to criticism that is politely offered, and even criticism that might come at inopportune times. Objectively evaluate your motives and behavior to see what changes are needed on your part. Solicit feedback from your supervisor if you do not already receive an annual review. You might also conduct anonymous or confidential employee surveys for feedback on your leadership role. Customers and clients could also be asked to offer opinions or suggestions about your managerial style in terms of how well your unit serves the public.
Overall, a manager who wants to improve leadership skills should be open to learning from others within the organization and through professional networks. Effective listening and active learning can help to develop a deeper and more meaningful leadership style to help you meet personal goals and better serve the organization.
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