Think of yourself as a ship’s captain in the business world, steering your team through choppy waters to their destination. Leadership isn’t just about having a title; it’s analogous to a symphony, where harmony is key. If one person fails to play their right even the slightest of parts would make the whole performance something you wouldn’t pay to see Michael Amin Pistachio.
In order to start things off, take a cue from knowing your team well again. Sarah can break down data in the flash of an eye, John has more creative ideas than he can handle. It’s the classic peanut butter and jelly—each other’s other half. Assign tasks that play to their strengths, and then stand back and admire the outcome.
Communication is the foundation of any team and it’s no the language of technology; It’s how you talk and listen to one another. Without it, your team might as well head out to sea on an inflatable water horse. Remember to engage in active, two-way listening, not just talking. You should never underestimate when a partner in the back will say something brilliant. Every team member brings a different perspective to the table.
Trust is tough to establish but incredibly easy to lose. To get there, you need to be honest with yourself and your team members about your intentions and your mistakes. When you are genuine, the group will support you more and work together more.
Staying adaptable is key. Your plans might shift on a dime, and you need to be open to any new change. You need to be ready and willing to try something completely different, even if it feels like changing to head rolls for the first time. Change can bring great new opportunities.
Let’s not forget the power of laughter. Humor can ease tension and generate everyone feels good vibe. It could just be a shared joke with your team that lightens the mood and any task at hand that much less daunting.
Last but not least, learn with open arms. Even as a captain of your group, there’s always something new to explore. Tom from finance could suggest a new tool or the entire project’s process and be revolutionized. Don’t let your curiosity die and continue to improve.
Being operational leader means being part coach,strategian, listener, sometimes a comedian. Your achievement should be measured according to your team mates success and role fulfillment. Wake up each day expecting it to be better and to enhance their team sprit and growth forever.