Throughout my successful career, I have traversed various industries and climbed the corporate ladder to be asked the age-old question: What is the secret behind my triumphs? It wasn’t until my stint as a store manager at Target that I truly grasped the essence of effective leadership. I learned that to thrive and prosper, I had to rely on my team. The key to success lies not in doing it all alone, but in leading, developing, and training a strong team.
Over my 23+ year career as a people leader, ranging from managing teams of 15 to 300+, I have distilled the five essential leadership qualities that have guided me through my journey:
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Trust
When leading a team, trust is paramount. It involves believing in the capabilities of your team members to perform their tasks competently. However, trust is not blind faith; it requires validation and verification. For trust to flourish, it must also be mutual – your team needs to trust in your words and actions as much as you trust in theirs. -
Diversity
Embracing diversity is crucial in building a robust team. Early in my career, I realized the importance of diverse perspectives. Hiring individuals who think differently and come from varied backgrounds has enabled me to tackle challenges from multiple angles. It’s essential to have team members who can challenge you and offer fresh insights to avoid falling into the trap of similar blind spots. -
Growth Mindset
Maintaining a growth mindset propels you and your team to constantly strive for improvement. Celebrating achievements is essential, but the real success lies in pushing boundaries and aiming for the next milestone. Constantly challenging your team to learn new skills and evolve ensures continuous growth and development. -
Accountability
Accountability is often misconstrued as a negative aspect of leadership. However, holding your team accountable for their performance – both positive and negative – is crucial for their growth. Recognizing and acknowledging top performers, while also providing constructive feedback for improvement, fosters a culture of accountability that drives success. - Servant Leader
A servant leader prioritizes investing in their team’s growth and well-being. Understanding how each team member prefers to be coached, recognized, and supported is crucial for effective leadership. Anticipating and eliminating obstacles that stand in your team’s path to success is akin to clearing the road for a smooth drive. Being a servant leader means empowering your team to excel without hindrances.
In conclusion, regardless of the industry we operate in, success boils down to effective leadership and people-centric approaches. By embodying these key principles and qualities, I have navigated different sectors with success. Remember, it’s not about the industry but about the people. Leading your team adeptly will pave the way for unparalleled success in any field you choose to embark upon.
