What does it take to be the female leader in
charge? Here
are 5 characteristics that will help engage and connect with people you need to
lead.
Being
the boss can be difficult at times. Making the tough decisions, giving people a
second chance, being held accountable, taking responsibility, and being
unpopular all go along with the territory. But what does it take to be the
female leader in charge?
You
may ask yourself daily if people will ever give you the benefit of the doubt,
trust your instincts and let you lead. If so, then here are 5 characteristics
that will help engage and connect with people you need to lead.
Set the tone. The
environment is about how people feel around you. Are you approachable? Do
you show interest in them as people? Do you disclose about yourself? Is
the workplace fun? If you answered no or aren’t certain, then you have
some work to do.
Support your
followers.
Respect who you delegate to. Trust they have the skills and abilities to
get the job done. Explore their potential. Take a chance on them. Ask them
how they need to be supported.
Be available. Listen to your
followers' suggestions. Listen for what makes them get up in the morning
or, for that matter, what keeps them awake at night. Don’t hole up in your
office. Make sure the lines of communication are open and not just one
way. Be a person of your word. Follow through on what you promise and
never betray a confidence.
Provide feedback
- frequently.
Don’t wait for the annual review to share what isn’t working. Whether it’s
good or bad, give your attention to who needs you. Providing constant
feedback helps your followers improve tremendously. They begin to trust
you and what you stand for. They believe in your goals and direction for
the company.
Show compassion. Remember the
people who follow you aren’t just followers; they are people with
feelings, needs, and ideas. Show that you care about them.
Karen
Keller, Ph.D. is an expert in women's leadership and assertiveness training.
She specializes in the skills of influence and persuasion, executive coaching,
mentoring, sales techniques, management development training, personal life
coaching, and corporate training. Discover the Real
POWER for Women now!
