6 attributes that people love to see from their leader

Mark Deterding Dec. 9, 2019

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[pull quote] “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him” ~Proverbs 16:7

To help my clients discern areas of improvement opportunity, I ask their teams what they would like to see from their leaders. Here are the most common themes. 

1. Clarity: Clearly communicate with your team

Be clear and concise about both your vision for the future and your expectations. People want to be “in the know.” They want to know where they are headed and what you expect from them so they can deliver. They also want to know what the rewards are for good work and the consequences for sub-standard work.

2. Relationship: Connect with your team

Be present with your people. Don’t leave them wondering who you are. They are looking for you to care for them and build a working relationship with them. Learn names. Acknowledge people as you walk around. Recognize that life is going on outside of work.

3. Confident humility: Humble yourself and empower your team

Be competent in your role, but lead with humility. Be decisive when necessary and illustrate your knowledge by the quality of your decisions. Recognize that no one is any more important than anyone else and illustrate that by your actions with your team. Let each know how important they are by involving them and get their brains in the game.

4. Encourager: Cheer your team on

Constantly look for and recognize the great work people are doing. Lift them up for it, show your gratitude and clearly illustrate the positive difference they are making on the team. Encourage them not only for their actions and work, but just as importantly for who they are and the values they are portraying.

5. Courage: Challenge your team for more

Make bold decisions. Creativity and innovation drive progress and performance. Have difficult conversations when necessary. People want to know where they stand and where they might need to improve.

6. Passion: Lift your team with your own energy 

Care about what you do. It will inspire people. Exhibit boundless energy and passion for your purpose, vision, and values and the work you do. Don’t be shy about your passion for what you are leading. Your passions will shine through and people will want to follow.

My research shows that focusing in these areas will enhance your leadership and people will be clamoring to join your team.

Photo source: istock 

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Mark Deterding is the founder and principal of Triune Leadership Services, LLC. In 2011 he formed Triune Leadership Services to follow his passion of working with leaders to help them develop core servant leadership capabilities that allow them to lead at a higher level and enable them to achieve their God-given potential. He is married to his wife Kim, and they have two sons, two lovely daughter-in-laws, and three wonderful grandchildren. This article was first published on triuneleadershipservices.com. Used with permission. Learn More »

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