3 Qualities of an Effective Leader in the Workplace

Creating a powerful company culture begins with leadership. A team is a reflection of its leadership, so it’s important to think about how you’re leading your people and what could be improved upon. 

“Gone are the days where personal relationships are considered ‘soft’, where people believe that work is no place for human connection and that command and control still works. The world is changing and the leadership that people require is too.” (Project Brightspot Report 2021)

Here are 3 qualities of an effective leader in the workplace: 

1. Powerful Communicator 

Communication is key to leading an organization well. To develop trust with your employees, you must have an open line of honest communication and create a culture where they can fully understand your goals and vision. Being a strong leader with powerful communication skills also means listening to your employees well. At the end of the day, it is your job to ensure that they are satisfied, growing, and on the right career trajectory. 

Tips for implementing: 

• Be open about your company’s goals and vision. 
• Establish monthly or quarterly 1-on-1 meetings with your employees.
• Check-in on your employees often by asking good questions and listening well. 

2. Lead With Integrity 

Great leaders lead with integrity and honesty. Setting an example of doing the right empowers your employees to want to do the right thing. Employees want leaders who they respect. People who work in environments with leaders who work with integrity, always tell the truth, and do the right thing will perform better.

Tips for implementing: 

• Have the courage to step up and take ownership if you make a mistake. 
• Remain consistent with expectations and follow up. 
• Lead with integrity in decision making and explain to your employees the why behind decisions. 

3. Empower Others

According to research from the 2021 Project Bright Spot Report, 78% of great leaders create conditions for empowerment. The bottom line is: people don’t want to be micromanaged. Empowering your employees to take ownership, contribute to the conversation, and bring new ideas creates unmatchable work. 

Tips for implementing: 

• Mentor and lead – don’t micromanage. Provide guidance that leads your employees to reach complex solutions to questions on their own. 
• Communicate your expectations boldly and show that you believe in them fully to accomplish their goals. 
• Encourage your team to take risks, so they can continue to grow both personally and professionally. 

If you have any additional thoughts to add to this list follow us on LinkedIn! At Snellings, we care deeply about our people, process, and company culture. We believe that the workplace should be a place where growth is fostered both professionally and personally. To learn more about us, click here.