Photo source: Klaus Vedfelt
“A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don’t necessarily want to go, but ought to be.”– Rosalynn Carter
Whether you’re managing a large organisation or guiding a small team, the ability to inspire, motivate, and connect with your people is key to achieving success. But how can you make your leadership even better?
Provide public commendations
Acknowledging employee accomplishments in front of peers boosts the confidence of the praised individuals and also encourages others to strive for excellence.
Moreover, research indicates that public recognition correlates with increased employee engagement, leading to higher productivity and lower turnover rates. A survey by the Harvard Business Review has also found out that 37% of employees consider recognition as the most important motivator at work.
Conduct welfare checks
Another secret ingredient to better leadership involves conducting employee welfare checks. Employees may face various challenges, both personal and professional, that can impact their performance and overall morale. By taking the time to connect with team members—whether through one-on-one meetings, informal check-ins, or simply asking how they are doing—you can identify potential issues early on and establish a culture of open communication and trust.
Offer forgiveness
As a leader, openly forgiving mistakes encourages a culture of accountability rather than blame. This approach helps your people feel supported and valued, promoting open communication and collaboration. Additionally, offering forgiveness can strengthen relationships within the team, as it builds trust and shows that leaders prioritise long-term success over short-term setbacks.
Improving your leadership skills doesn’t always require grand gestures or intricate strategies; rather, it’s often the small, deliberate actions that leave a lasting impression on your team. Apply these simple yet powerful ingredients to better leadership and create a more engaged, motivated, and high-performing workforce.