Key Attitudes and Skills for Exceptional Team Management – A Leadership Blueprint
Leadership is a journey of continuous learning, self-awareness, and planned action. Whether you're leading a small team, or managing a large organisation, I think the principles of effective leadership remain the same. This blog summarises the key insights from a leadership session I ran into actionable ideas to help you become a more effective leader.
1. Leading by example - The Shadow of the Leader
One of the most critical concepts in leadership is the "shadow of the leader." Your team watches your behaviour and uses it as a benchmark for their own actions. For example, If you value integrity, teamwork, or accountability, your actions must reflect those values consistently.
Ask yourself “What shadow am I casting for my team?” Be mindful of how your actions influence their perception of what’s important.
2. Authenticity is key
Authenticity builds trust. You can’t lead effectively by pretending to be someone else. While it’s essential to learn from great leaders, adapt their techniques to suit your own style. People see straight through inauthenticity, so be genuine in how you lead.
Identify leadership traits you admire in others, but apply them in a way that aligns with your personality and values.
3. Confidence with humility
Confidence inspires trust, but arrogance alienates people. Achieving a balance between confidence and humility is essential for building strong relationships within your team.
Be decisive and assertive when you need to, but remain open to feedback and willing to admit mistakes when you make them.
4. Communication - The foundation of leadership
Effective communication is the cornerstone of great leadership. This includes active listening, asking thoughtful questions, and providing clear instructions. Whether working face-to-face or remotely, strong communication builds connection and alignment within your team.
Schedule regular check-ins with your team members to discuss their progress and challenges.
5. Problem-solving and decision-making
As a leader you’ll have to solve problems and make decisions. Having some tools and frameworks for addressing challenges helps you to respond effectively under pressure. And equally important is decision-making. Your team looks to you for direction, even if it means admitting when you've made a wrong call.
Learn some problem-solving techniques and frameworks, and when making decisions, explain your reasoning to build trust and transparency.
6. Delegation done right
Delegation isn’t about offloading tasks. It’s about empowering your team while freeing up time for your strategic priorities. Assign tasks based on individual strengths and development opportunities.
Clearly define your expectations for delegated tasks. Provide support, but avoid micromanaging. Let team members take ownership.
7. Feedback that drives growth
Feedback is a powerful tool for motivation and development when done correctly. Recognise achievements with specific praise and provide constructive feedback for improvement in a supportive manner.
Be specific about what was done well when giving reinforcing feedback (e.g. “Your presentation was impactful because you used clear examples”).
For developmental feedback, focus on behaviours that can improve (e.g. “Next time, consider structuring your report this way to make it clearer”).
8. Conflict resolution skills
Conflict is inevitable in any team setting, but unresolved issues can harm relationships and productivity. Equip yourself with conflict management techniques to address problems early.
Listen actively to everyone involved and focus on finding solutions rather than assigning blame.
9. Inspiring your team through vision
Great leaders inspire their teams by sharing a clear vision and motivating them towards shared goals. Inspiration isn’t about authority. It’s about creating an environment where people choose to follow you.
Share the “why” behind your vision and goals. Help people to see “What’s in it for me” and align those individual motivations with your business objectives.
10. Appreciation and recognition matter
People thrive when their efforts are acknowledged in ways that resonate with them personally. Some prefer public recognition, while others value private acknowledgment or opportunities for growth.
Understand each team member’s preference for recognition and tailor your approach to them. Celebrate milestones and successes regularly – whether they’re big or small.
In summary, effective leadership requires a blend of attitudes (e.g. authenticity, confidence, accountability) and skills (e.g. communication, problem-solving, delegation). By focusing on the areas in this blog, you can create an environment where your team feels valued, motivated, and aligned towards shared success.
Remember, leadership isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being intentional in how you show up for your team every day.
Get in touch to arrange to talk about how I could work with you to help develop your leaders and managers and build exceptional teams in your business or organisation.
These observations, experiences and lessons are taken from my Exceptional Team Blueprint™ book which is available on Amazon here.
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