Good leaders all have one thing in common: They understand context. It’s a bit like parenting. You wouldn’t talk to a 7 year old the same way you would talk to an 17 year old. Context. They also have the practicality to know what works from years of experience, while still deploying their fundamental beliefs to drive their companies’ vision. Leaders continue to be practitioners despite their position. They still know how to get their hands dirty, to do the work, which makes them effective.
Here are a few tips on how to be an effective leader from this one man’s perspective that I’ve learned after building a business for over 20 years.
1. Being in charge is not a popularity contest
As a leader, you must make your decisions without any concern for whether people like or agree with you. A leader without a follower is just taking a walk. As a leader, you like to please people, so don’t become discouraged if this is difficult for you. But it’s up to you to make the tough choices. Sometimes those decisions are not going to be popular, but you have to make the choices that are best for your team.
2. When making changes to the status quo, explain your reasons why
Leaders are called and true leaders are called to shatter and shape the status quo. When making changes to the status quo, communicate with your team your reason for doing so. Emphasize that the results will prove beneficial for the organization. People who want to achieve the same goals will get on board.
3. Have a clear plan and the courage to stick to that plan
Building a successful organization requires two things: a clear plan for the future and the courage to stick to that plan. Have you ever noticed at half time, that the really good coaches never discourage their team? Even if they’re down, they never say, “We blew it. Let’s change the plan.” No. Good coaches and good leaders stick to the strategy. They execute the strategy. They call their team to get in the game and make it happen.
As a leader, you have a significant vision for your team. Significant visions don’t come without hurdles. Have the courage to stay in the game, execute the plan and make it happen.
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David Villa