If you are new to leading a team, or perhaps your team has changed: different members; a change in the number of teammates; new goals. It’s a great time to take a moment to reflect upon how to unite the team for best efficiency, performance and results.
Here is a short list for your consideration:
- If you have managed a group before, what do you think your team members would say about you and your leadership style? Try to build upon the positive and work on the skills that you may be lacking.
- If coming in to lead a new team, do not make snap decisions—which you may regret later. Take time to get to know the people and the issues. Use the first month to assess everything. Talk to everyone. No one wants or expects you to turn everything upside down immediately. Doing so just creates wariness, insecurity and does nothing to build trust.
- Treat everyone with respect—and that includes people who do not agree with you. Do not discredit or belittle those who challenge your ideas. Be glad they are trying to contribute to solutions. The mark of a great leader is one who leads by example, works with others to achieve results, and ultimately turns naysayers into supporters –who will help.
- Have patience. This may be one of the most difficult things to master and use effectively. Even if you believe you have the greatest ideas, if no one is following, supporting or listening, you’ll achieve very little results.
- Grow a thicker skin. As a leader, you will never please everyone. Those who oppose your ideas may not always communicate gracefully or well. Do not take it personally. It is not worth the time or effort and will only make you appear immature and vulnerable if you do.
- Smile. The power of a positive countenance is immeasurable.