If you want to be a leader, you have to choose what type of leader you want to be. There are two types of leaders:
- Leaders who inspire
- Leaders who manipulate
Anyone who influences by using fear as a motivation trigger can be a leader. But there are very few leaders who influence others by inspiring them.
So, let’s discuss a few ways you can develop your leadership skills and become a leader who inspires others.
Use the Golden Circle
Inspiring leaders all over the world behave in the same way. They act, think and communicate in the same way. If you want to be like them, follow the Golden Circle.
The Golden Circle is akin to Golden Ratio, a concept in mathematics that has intrigued mathematicians, biologists, architects, musicians and many more.
What is so fascinating about the golden ratio is the fact that people from any profession can use it to inspire and influence others. By following this simple formula you can get predictable and constant results which many people think can only be achieved through luck.
As explained by the famous motivational speaker and author Simon Sinek, the golden circle has three major components:
- What?
- How?
- Why?
What: What is quite simple. Everyone knows what they are doing. Whether it’s an individual or a company, everyone is aware of what needs to be done. A person should be fully aware of the job he is doing. An organisation can explain what product or service they are selling and how they are making money.
How: How is the second most important thing. Most companies and individuals know how they need to approach a situation. You can take how as a Unique Selling Preposition. It can be the factor where an individual or company differentiates itself from the competition.
Why: Very few people and companies know why they are doing, what they are doing. Most people and companies would answer why with money. But that is not the correct answer. Money is the outcome it should never be the reason.
Why means the purpose.
- If you are an individual, why do you exist?
- If you are a company, why do you exist?
What is quite common is that many people also know how to do the job. But very few people and companies know why they are doing something, which makes them stand out and outperform others.
If you want to be a leader who inspires others, then start the circle upside down. Start from why. Always question yourself why you are doing your job. If you are a CEO, ask yourself why your company is selling, what they are selling. If you are a manager, ask your self why you are managing your team?
Practice Discipline
It is often said that self-discipline is the key to success. Discipline is the second most important thing in our list for you if you want to become a leader who inspires others.
It will not only help you stay focused on your vision and goals, but it will also enable you to face the hard times and challenges with resilience.
As you practice discipline, the people who follow you are also inspired to develop discipline in their lives. At work, you need discipline to meet deadlines, attend meetings and keep everything organised.
If you think you are disorganised, start small practices to overcome it. Start by making your bed after waking up, it will give you a sense of accomplishment. Also, incorporate routine exercises into your lifestyle.
Be a good listener
Many people think good communication is all about speaking and presenting your opinion. But it is not true. Good communication is more about listening than speaking.
If you are managing a team, listen to each member of your team. Listen to their opinions. Listen to their perspectives. Listen to their philosophies. It will build trust among your team members.
Another important thing you need to know is the fact that body language is another great part of the communication. Have a positive body language. Read some books on body language and what they exhibit. This way you can pick up on small signs like when one of your team members is feeling confused, you can make them feel comfortable by mirroring their body language.
Reward your employees
Don’t hesitate from rewarding your best workers. If someone is performing extremely well, acknowledge their brilliance. If you can, provide occasional leaves for your employees then allow them to avail it. Build a company car fleet and offer cars to your senior management. There are many car rentals which offer economy car rentals for corporate purposes.
Summary
Here is a small recap of all the things we discussed in the article:
- Use the golden circle
- Practice discipline
- Be a good listener
- Reward your employees
By practicing these simple tips, you will be able to enhance your leadership skills gradually. Remember, don’t be harsh on your teammates or employees rather stay calm and try to implement things slowly.
