Leadership skills mean more than just about holding a position of authority; they are tools to enable leaders to inspire and guide others towards a shared vision.
But making this happen successfully is easier said than done.
At Instep, we’ve seen first-hand that leaders come in all shapes and sizes, from all backgrounds, races, religions, and genders.
There are, however, certain leadership skills all the best managers and team leaders have in common.
In this article, we’re going to lay on the line the top seven leadership skills we believe every leader must have to:
- Create a positive, productive environment
- Help everyone achieve their individual potential
- Smash business goals and company targets or OKRs.
First up is the ability to harness the emotional side of business.
1. Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence (EI) is the cornerstone of effective leadership.
It involves the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, as well as those of others.
Leaders with high EI can navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, build strong relationships, and create a positive work environment.
Research shows that leaders with high emotional intelligence are 34% more effective at leading change and managing staff.
Consider Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, who transformed the company’s culture by emphasising empathy and collaboration.
His approach not only revitalised Microsoft’s innovation but also significantly improved employee morale and engagement.
2. Communication Skills
Effective communication is an essential skill for any leader.
But what does effective communication look like?
It involves not only conveying ideas clearly but also listening actively and creating an ‘open dialogue’ culture, where people feel confident, comfortable, and respected enough to present their opinion.
Leaders who communicate well can align their teams with the company’s goals and ensure their teams are ‘bought in’ to the mission, meaning everyone is on the same page.
If you’re a leader, you may hold regular check-ins, adjust your communication depending on who you’re talking to, encourage feedback, and display active listening.
3. Adaptability
With the rise of artificial intelligence, the working world is changing more rapidly than ever before, which means adaptability is a crucial skill for leaders.
A study by Harvard Business School highlights that adaptable leaders are better equipped to handle the complexities of modern business environments, which makes it a key trait to look for in your team.
Adaptability means being open to new ideas, willing to pivot strategies when necessary, and staying resilient in the face of setbacks.
Adaptable leaders can guide their teams through change and uncertainty with confidence.
4. Critical Thinking
Critical thinking enables leaders to analyse situations, make informed decisions, and solve problems effectively.
It involves evaluating information from multiple sources, considering different perspectives, and anticipating potential outcomes.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, leaders who demonstrated strong critical thinking skills were able to quickly implement remote work policies, ensuring business continuity while prioritising employee safety.
5. Authenticity
Authentic leaders are true to themselves and their values.
They build trust by being genuine, transparent, and consistent in their actions.
Authenticity creates a culture of integrity and respect, which is essential for long-term success.
Howard Schultz, former CEO of Starbucks, is known for his authentic leadership style. His commitment to ethical business practices and employee welfare has been a driving force behind Starbucks’ global success.
6. Inclusivity
Inclusive leadership is about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
It involves recognising and leveraging the diverse talents and perspectives within a team.
Inclusive leaders promote equity and foster a sense of belonging within your team.
Research from the Centre for Creative Leadership shows that inclusive leaders drive higher levels of team performance and innovation.
7. Visionary Thinking
Visionary leaders have a clear and compelling vision for the future.
They inspire others by articulating a shared purpose and motivating their teams to work towards common goals.
Visionary thinking involves not only the ability to dream – but the ability to act. This involves strategic planning, foresight, and the ability to inspire others.
Looking for Leadership Skills in your Company?
Are you looking for leaders who can drive growth in your company?
The chances are you already have them!
But are they fulfilling their true potential?
At Instep, we provide comprehensive leadership courses to develop these seven skills (and more) so our learners can navigate the complexities of the modern workplace and drive meaningful change.
At Instep, we are committed to supporting leaders from all backgrounds in their journey to success.
Remember, leadership is not about where you come from, but where you are going and how you inspire others to join you on that journey.
Get in touch today to learn more about how we can create more leaders within your business.
