How to Be an Inspirational Leader
Are you running your business or leading your business?
Do you have the sense that your employees come to work each day, put in the required time and effort, then leave without a second thought? What are you doing so the people who give so much of their lives to your business don’t feel like cogs in a machine?
Inspirational leadership is key to fostering motivation and commitment among your team. Employees who feel little or no emotional connection to their work don’t give all they have, nor do they tend to stick around for very long. To ensure the long-range success of your business, it’s absolutely critical to inspire these men and women, giving them a sense of purpose and meaning so they feel committed to doing their best.
Give them a story.
Your business has a story, though your employees may not know what it is. We’re all hard-wired to connect to a larger narrative and when you can tell that story, people will better understand their roles and contributions.
This story encompasses the origins of your company, the customers you serve and the needs your products or services fulfill—and it includes where the business is headed. A visionary leader is an inspiring leader. Sharing your company’s vision helps your team connect to the qualities of a great leader and motivates them to help turn that vision into a reality.
Be generous with praise.
Nothing inspires employees more than being praised for their efforts. If you notice you’re doling out more critical comments than positive feedback, consider the morale-boosting value of singling out peoples’ contributions. Recognizing success is one of the most important leadership motivation strategies.
The same holds true for responding favorably to your staff’s ideas and suggestions for improvement.
Focus on your team’s growth.
How well do you know your various employees’ strengths and talents? There should be a process in place by which these skills are recognized and encouraged, thus benefiting both the individual and your business. Supporting your team’s growth is an essential part of how to motivate a team and empower future leaders.
Share information freely.
The ongoing health of your business depends on the flow of information. Of course, some information must be shared on a need-to-know basis, but not as much as many business leaders think. If you want employees to think independently and make knowledgeable decisions on their own, you must share what you can to make that happen.
Transparency and trust are key to achieving effective leadership skills that drive your team’s success.
Be an inspiring role model.
The single most inspiring thing you can do as a leader is model the behavior you seek to find in others. Are you passionate about your business? About the people who work for you? About the customers you serve? If so, let it show!
Your energy and enthusiasm are infectious. Demonstrating qualities of a great leader inspires others to bring their best every day.
others see how your passion drives you, every day. They will feed off this excitement and share your passion as well.
If you’re ready to ready to grow as a leader and actively inspire the people who work for you, join other CEOs, managers and senior-level executives in a confidential group setting where you’ll be challenged and rewarded like never before in your professional life. Learn more about becoming a Catapult Group member today.
