Leading well: the top 5 great behaviours of great leaders

Leadership is not just about holding a position of authority; it's about inspiring and guiding others towards a common vision. Great leaders are not born; they are forged through their behaviours, actions, and the impact they create on those around them. Indeed, we often discuss such actions and behaviours that make a great leader with our group of experts in the Collective. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to be one, understanding and adopting these five key behaviours will empower you to become an exceptional leader who leaves a lasting legacy.

1. Authenticity

At the core of great leadership lies authenticity. Authentic leaders are genuine, transparent, and true to themselves and their values. They don't put on a facade to please others; instead, they lead with integrity, humility, and sincerity. By being authentic, leaders foster trust and loyalty among their teams, creating an environment where individuals feel safe to express themselves and bring their whole self to the task at hand.

To practise authenticity, reflect on your values and beliefs, and align your actions with them consistently. Embrace vulnerability and be open about your strengths and weaknesses. When your team sees you being genuine, they will be more likely to follow your lead with enthusiasm and respect.

2. Visionary Thinking

Great leaders possess a clear vision for the future and the ability to communicate it effectively to their teams. They have a strategic mindset and can see beyond the present challenges, inspiring others with a compelling and achievable vision. Visionary leaders create a sense of purpose, instilling passion and determination in their team members to work towards a common goal.

To enhance your visionary thinking, take time to envision the future you want to create. Set ambitious yet attainable goals and break them down into actionable steps. Continuously communicate your vision and provide a sense of direction to keep everyone motivated and focused on the bigger picture.

3. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Empathy and emotional intelligence are essential traits of great leaders. Empathetic leaders understand the emotions and perspectives of their team members and use this understanding to connect with them on a deeper level. They actively listen, show compassion, and offer support, recognizing that their team's well-being is instrumental in achieving collective success.

Developing emotional intelligence involves self-awareness, social awareness, and empathetic communication. Practise active listening and put yourself in others' shoes to better understand their needs and concerns. Cultivate a positive and empathetic workplace culture that fosters open communication and supports the personal growth of each team member.

4. Delegation

Great leaders understand that they cannot do everything themselves. Instead, they delegate tasks to their team members based on their strengths, trusting them to excel in their roles. By empowering others, leaders foster a sense of ownership and accountability within the team.

Learn to delegate effectively by recognising the strengths of each team member and assigning tasks accordingly. Provide guidance and support but also give them the autonomy to make decisions and take ownership of their work. When individuals feel empowered, they become more engaged and motivated to contribute their best to the team's success.

5. Continuous Learning

The journey of leadership is an ever-evolving one, and great leaders are committed to continuous learning and personal growth. They seek new knowledge, stay updated with industry trends, and actively seek feedback from their teams and mentors.

Embrace a growth mindset and view challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement. Invest in your own development through workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities. As you grow as a leader, you'll inspire others to pursue growth and development, creating a culture of learning within your organisation.

By embracing these behaviours, you'll not only become a great leader, but you'll also inspire and uplift those around you, creating a positive and impactful environment where everyone can thrive and achieve extraordinary results. Remember, leadership is not about being at the top; it's about empowering others to reach their highest potential. So, step up, lead with excellence, and watch your influence make a difference in the world.