10 Ways to Become a Better Leader

When I coach leaders to set and reach their leadership goals, I find that these are the top 10 that are the keys to success. 

As you read this list - Rate yourself from 1-5 (with 5 being the highest) on how to would assess your skills in each of these areas.  You can use this as your "gap finder" for choosing the areas that you most want to work on to become a more effective leader. 

1. _____ COMMUNICATION EFFECTIVELY

Practice clear, open communication to build trust. Deal with communication problems as they arise. Practice active listening. 

2. _____ BUILD RELATIONSHIPS

Practice connection before content by always beginning meetings and conversations with relationship building conversations or activities.

3._____ BE POSITIVE

Be kind. Assume positive intent. Approach challenges with optimism and resilience.

4._____ LEAD BY EXAMPLE

Demonstrate the values and behaviors you expect from your team. Model the behaviors you want to see.

5.______SHOW GRATITUDE AND APPRECIATION

Practice daily gratitude for what’s going well in your life. Show regular appreciation and catch people doing something right to boost morale and motivation

6._____ BE ADAPTABLE

Embrace change and be flexible in your strategies. Look for solutions, not problems.

7._____ PROVIDE MEANINGFUL FEEDBACK

Offer regular, actional feedback and encourage professional growth.

8._____ SET CLEAR EXPECTATIONS

Make sure job duties are understood bey setting clear and realistic expectations, including deadlines for outcomes and measurements of success.

9._____ BE ORGANIZED

Set up systems to manage your workload and your time more efficiently. Practice regular process improvement.

10._____SET REGULAR LEADERSHIP GOALS

Do a regular self-assessment on your strengths and stretches. Make a plan to work on gaps you may have and review with a mentor or coach.