Are you in the role of a leader or are you all likely to be in such a position in the future? If so, do you think you have all the key characteristics of a leader? The following 3 seemingly simple questions will help you understand more about your behavior.
1 - Do you try to understand other people's perspective?
Now that we communicate mainly through screens and devices, without personal interaction, it is very important to see things from other people’s perspective. Often we rush to judge someone’s decision with a negative eye and have a tendency to “act biased” by making hasty decisions without hearing different voices. As sensitivity increases, you will begin to solve problems about what may prevent your people from performing in the best way. Seeking understanding will allow you, as a leader, to provide the people around you with the solutions they need.
2 - Do you provide leadership and direction for the people you lead?
In other words, anticipate the future, lead the work with foresight, set clear goals and expectations, and continually clarify goals and expectations as things change. When the future is uncertain, many employees will turn to their leaders for safety and direction. Ask questions such as:
- What issues do you need immediate help with?
- How can I help you better?
- What are the obstacles to your goals?
3 - Are you open to impressions / reactions, including those you would not like to hear?
To be a truly effective leader, you will gain the upper hand when you begin to see feedback as a gift to improve yourself so that you can better serve others and the mission. Be open to appreciating truth and honesty and different perspectives on improving yourself and your business. Even when the reactions are negative, it stimulates the curious point of view to understand what has not gone right and what needs to be done to prevent it from happening again.
Sources: Entrepreneur, Inc. Magazine
