SME News Q2 2018

12 SME NEWS / Q2 2018 , 5 Traits of Successful Leaders Some people seem to be born leaders: completely at ease with taking charge of things andmaking important decisions, and able to get along with all sorts of very different people. However, just because some do it more naturally doesn’t mean that others can’t get the hang of goodmanagement. A strong leader is made up of positive behaviours that encourage the trust and respect of others, approach situations objectively, and achieve results. Here are five behaviours every good leader should adopt. Using Feedback Putting feedback to good use is a real test of good management. People tend to fall into one extreme or the other - either rejecting all feedback and being stubborn in their approach, or relying too heavily on the input of others, and never thinking originally or independently - but neither of these are traits of a strong leader. The best way to go is to focus on looking at work matters impartially, unswayed by personality, that is open to collaboration and suggestions. Confidence and humility are an important combination. Taking Risks A huge part of business is taking risks, but again, people tend to hang around one or other end of the spectrum. Someone who jumps into risky situations without calculating their chances of success are destined for failure on a considerable scale, while a manager who refuses to take any risks will never reach their potential, and are likely to miss out on opportunities in the future. Gauging the feedback of others is an essential part of calculating how worthwhile a risk is before coming to a final decision. Forward, Flexible and Focused Focus on an end goal is a surprisingly rare quality, and it is essential to decent leadership. A manager’s path, and the decisions they make while on it, should be guided by that goal. This means that when inevitable obstacles present themselves, you can spontaneously adjust your approach accordingly, without losing sight of that goal. This display of positivity and robustness will influence and inspire your team. Do What You Say and Say What You Do Authenticity is a trait that trumps all others. Even if we are not fond of someone as a person, we find it much easier to work alongside them if they are transparent and honest. Honesty strips the majority of the doubt and anxiety out of any relationship, and allows you to get on with work with high efficiency. So don’t think you have to wear a ‘boss’ hat - simply shine your managerial light through a ‘you’ filter, so that you exhibit all the right leader behaviours, but in a way that is natural to you. Real Relationships Work as depicted in the movies or in adverts is far from the whole story, because in real life, the relationships between humans are vastly complex, with a million variables which can cause clashes or harmonies. The objective of good leadership shouldn’t be making everyone think you’re great, but of everyone having a mutual respect for each other and their work, having an understanding of what is required of them, and that each person is working toward the same common goal. Notice that these behaviours do not require you to change your personality - if anything, you should embrace it more than ever. What is necessary to become a strong leader is making the right example, maintaining strong personal relationships, and most importantly, being your honest self, and encouraging others to do the same.