Are You an Effective Leader?

At 211 degrees, water is extremely hot. At 212 degrees, water boils and produces steam. Steam can be used to power a train or an entire city. In business, the extra degree is what it takes to become profitable. Here are five important leadership qualities to motivate your team to that extra degree.

Give Praise

Every day, you will have an opportunity to find something good your team is doing. Sing praises loud and in public so other employees can hear. Make sure to sing praise to each member of your team throughout the week to avoid any favoritism remarks. When you give a team member praise, the other members, naturally, will want to work harder to earn your praises too. Since no team member is perfect, it is best to give praise in public and discipline in private.

Be Consistent

An effective leader is one who is consistent. Be consistent with both praise and discipline. Your team should be held accountable for their actions and rewarded for success. If you are firm and fair across the board, your team will respect your decisions and respect you.

Lead By Example

This is one of the biggest sticking points with managers. Did you notice I wrote managers? A leader will do the same things he expects his team to do. When a team member is out sick, a leader will pick up the slack to ensure the company continues to operate effectively. If you are leading by example, holding your team accountable becomes much easier.

Teach

You are in a leadership position due to your experience and knowledge. Losing a great team member always becomes a difficult void to fill. Your goal, and responsibility as a leader, should be to watch your team members get promoted. Share your knowledge with your team. If you know what works in certain scenarios, help everyone around you become successful. I've seen successful people take a step into leadership and turn into the dictator. Your team should listen to you, not only because they have to, but because they want to.

Listen

The world of leadership is constantly changing. Listen to your team and their ideas. Even if you choose to not run with one of their ideas, listening makes your team members feel important. Trust me! By listening, you are not giving up any of your clout as The Boss.

One degree is the difference between being a good company and a great company. By living these five qualities, you will ensure your company will be making steam and not just sitting in hot water.