The Leader’s Mark: How leaders inspire others
As managers, it is important to look beyond transactional methods of operating and realize the moments that could spark change and inspire others through their leadership. The mark of a true leader is the ability to encourage employee commitment and engagement, with this being the foundation for continued success. Employees with absolute commitment and dedication are not easily demotivated and this is exactly how a leader can set an example by providing confidence and their experience to the team in order to get through the team through any obstacles and hold out for the rewards of success.
To be called a leader, you must inspire your team through your actions and words in order for them to believe in your common vision. The leader’s job is to influence people to work together in the service of something greater than themselves. So, the real question is, how do leaders inspire others?
I currently am a Senior Account Executive at Atteline, and I’m actively working towards a management position. I know that being a manager is not an easy role to fill, it takes a lot of training, practice, dedication, and knowledge to not only excel in this position as an individual but also as a team.. This is exactly why I dedicate the time for proper training so that I may grow my skills and truly learn what it takes to be a successful manager and leader in the agency I work for. Here’s what I found out:
Leaders articulate a vision for an inspiring future:
To truly inspire, you need to know precisely what you are striving to achieve. However, it’s not just the leaders’ vision that’s important, it has to be a shared vision that incorporates hopes, dreams, and aspirations of those you are attempting to lead. Positive leaders tap into the power of a vision and mark the way forward.
They communicate:
Rushing directions and expectations can create misinformation which in turn can lead to mistakes that cause further time loss and recurrent revisions. When it comes to written communication, such as emails and messages, these can easily be misunderstood in terms of context as well as tone of voice, leading to potential hurt feelings, misguided projects, and increased frustrations. Truly inspiring leaders know that taking the time to effectively communicate what is required will ensure that everyone is on board and moving forward in the same direction. A leader also takes the time to listen and ultimately seeks out those on the team who hold a difference in opinion with the goal not of convincing them to change their minds, but with the intention of understanding their position..
They gain trust and respect:
A leader cannot demand respect, but ultimately has to earn it. Leaders inspire others through leading by example, instilling trust and having integrity with what they say and do. When employees take pride in their leadership, trust is built and inspiration follows close behind, best developed through how the manager acts, thinks, and makes decisions.
They are grateful to their team:
Nothing drains commitment from a team like feeling their efforts go unnoticed. Ensure to build in milestones which offer rewards and incentives for their efforts. Even the smallest of gestures of gratitude can show people that they matter and go a long way. Most importantly, show recognition regularly for a job well done. This inevitably increases employee loyalty, enhances performance and generates greater success for the team in specific and the company as a whole.
A rule of thumb to keep in mind, leaders are made, not born overnight. Continually learn what works for you and your team and realize the areas you need to work on. All you can do is your best to work towards being a better leader and the rest will come.
Written by: Hanine El Massri, Account Manager at Atteline