Leading people is a great privilege and responsibility. Doing the job well is an art. As with all art forms, the arc of leadership contains “best practices” that should be replicated. On the flip side, there are also behaviors to steer away from. Here are three things great leaders should avoid doing.
1. Wasting Time
Wasting time is a huge no-no when it comes to leadership. Time is the one resource that isn’t recoverable, so no one appreciates working with someone who frequently wastes precious moments. Calling unnecessary meetings, being late, failing to show up, making last minute changes, and being unprepared are just a few ways wasting time presents itself in the workplace scenarios. Instead of committing office sins like these, use time effectively and be as prompt, prepared, considerate and intentional as possible.
2. Holding Onto Grudges
People make mistakes, have “off” days, and occasionally disappoint us. As a leader, it’s your job to understand that and not hold those mistakes against your team members. They deserve second chances and fresh starts, especially from the people who are in positions of power. Great leaders don’t hold grudges, practice vengeance, or delight in retaliation. If someone does something that needs to be addressed, handle it privately and professionally, then move on swiftly.
3. Failing to Acknowledge the Team’s Efforts
Great leaders avoid making their teams feel like their efforts don’t matter. Most people go to work every day and give their all to meet, or exceed, the standards. It’s hard to want to continue to put in a high quality work when you feel it goes unnoticed. If you want your team to give you all they’ve got, acknowledge the work they put in to make sure the company flourishes. They do a lot to make you and the business look good; thank them!
“Earn your leadership every day.” –Michael Jordan
As a leader, you don’t need to be perfect, but you do need to try your best for the people you manage. You have a team that depends on you and looks to you for guidance. Value the trust they’ve placed in you, and use these three tips to operate with integrity and avoid harmful practices.
