Things like delegation, communication, influence, leading by example, openness to feedback, humility, etc., are commonly spoken about and seen in them (well, humility not quite often). However, there are some other qualities that great leaders possess and things that they do that are extremely important but not often spoken about.
They don’t have an open-door policy
We established open-door policies to empower employees and enhance collaboration within teams and organizations. It worked well back in hierarchical structures wherein employees were afraid to communicate with their superiors.
Good leaders refrain from an open-door policy for two main reasons:
- It helps them protect their and their team members’ focus
- It helps their team members become independent and resourceful
They aren’t afraid to expose their vulnerability and ignorance
Your team knows that you are a human with your own flaws, weaknesses, quirkiness, and vulnerabilities. Great leaders understand that and don’t try to act all perfect.
They instead admit their shortcomings upfront. They do that to make their team aware and, more importantly, have their team members complement them and fill those gaps collectively as a unit.
Obsess over execution & processes and not over outcomes
Good leaders focus on setting winning processes and pursue superlative execution. They understand that if these are set right, results are bound to follow.
Good leaders understand that if results are not up to the mark, even if the execution is spot on, it is their responsibility, more than their team members, to get it right.
Think long term
- Prioritize long-term gains over short-term wins even if unpopular and causes immediate pain
- Ensure that team members also understand that and incorporate it into their behavior
- Work with the leadership team and set their expectations in line with that
- Sacrifice immediate gains for longer-term success
Focus on your team’s personal growth
- Unless their team members get better than what they were yesterday, they won’t achieve the higher goals set today.
- Help them upgrade their knowledge, skills, and habits continuously by coaching and leading with example
- They are stagnating if they aren’t achieving higher goals
