Most companies suck at training their leaders. Here's how to educate yourself to become a LEGEND:
Many companies put people in management positions and expect them to know what to do. They may hold annual leadership workshops with little value, but that's the extent of the training they'll provide. To grow as a leader, you have to take your development into your own hands.
You were hired to lead and to do that effectively, you need a rock-solid foundation of skills. Here are X principles of legendary leadership:
1. Failures are yours, successes are theirs. When the team fails, the leader dropped the ball. However, when the team wins, the leader should not take credit. Many will argue this point - they are narcissists who need recognition for the effort of others.
2. Manage your boss Bosses need to be told what to do. But doing it the right way is a skill you must develop. @wes_kao has an epic thread on Managing Up, check it out -
@wes_kao 3. Own EVERYTHING This is foundational. You are not a victim, everything is in your control and you must own that. Bad teams come from leaders who own nothing and blame others. Read Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink to develop an Ownership mindset.
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@wes_kao 4. Be empathetic. I've worked for leaders who never considered how their decisions impacted their people. These leaders sucked and made life miserable. When making decisions: > Ask for input > Consider all outcomes > Ask for feedback afterward This will build deep trust.
@wes_kao 5. Build real relationships. Work is not life, it's a component. Know your people personally. This takes time, don't force it. Here's how: - Use 1/1s to discuss life - Share yourself first, let them ease in - Remember their stories and follow-up Prioritize life over work.
@wes_kao 6. Know how to coach. When someone isn't carrying their weight, it's your fault (see item 1) To coach effectively: - Meet them where they are - Seek understanding of their struggles - Use situational leadership strategies:
@wes_kao 7. Communicate effectively Too many leaders suck at communication. That said, it's a very hard skill to master and you must adapt your approach to different scenarios: > Mass communication > 1/1 Conversations > Conference calls > Meetings > Emails > IMs To develop this skill-
@wes_kao 1. Fail a lot. 2. Adapt I know, that seems like terrible advice, but of everything on this list, effective communication is one of the hardest areas of leadership. Observe great and poor communicators then build your unique communication style.
@wes_kao Now, if you're in leadership, you have a lot of homework and reflection to do. If your aim to is to get into leadership, bookmark this thread and come back to it often. Follow these principles and you will build an unforgettable leadership legacy.
@wes_kao If you got anything from this thread, Help me get it in front of more people. RT the tweet below. Have a great day!
