Point #1
Any good leader has to focus on times to come. You must look to the future, look ahead, and make plans for that. Of course, you can’t always predict the future, but you can get pretty good at it. Always think about where you’d like to be at various intervals in the future and take the steps needed to get there.

Point #2
When you are leading, focus on those involved and work will be completed almost effortlessly. Work on being inspiring and encourage those around you. Instead of focusing on every task, motivate your team members to do their jobs correctly and efficiently.

Point #3
You don’t want to have an attitude in which you feel you know everything. The people you work with or encounter probably have some great ideas that would benefit everyone. They may offer advice about improving and executing your idea, and they may highlight problems that appear in the plan.

Point #4
Always remain approachable. Some people think that intimidating people is the most effective way to let them know you are in control. This generally isn’t going to work out, and people won’t give you respect because they won’t think you deserve it. While you don’t want to make the mistake of letting others walk on you, show others you’re there for them and care about their job, too.

Point #5
Don’t get rid of your morals to compete with other businesses. When the competition engages in questionable practices, look for other ways to compete with them. You do not have to copy to remain in the game. If you figure out a fresh way to stay in the game, you’ll be happier.

Point #6
Good work can flow more readily in the presence of strong incentives. Yes, everyone has a salary for doing their jobs, but incentives are a big peace of the leadership puzzle. Be ready to respond with some appropriate gift or favor when the people under you exceed expectations. Good leaders are generous in this situation.

Point #7
Whatever decisions you make will affect how your subordinates view you. They way you mete out responsibility, fire, hire and promote others will help them form opinions of you. Being biased towards one person can breed resentment and disrupt work flow.

Point #8
Each day, be aware of the world around you in your office and assess the progress you see or don’t see. You could appoint a few people to provide daily input. Ideas can be bandied about, suggestions can flow and relationships can be strengthened.

Leadership is something you have to find your own way in, so you can guide the people that you’re leading to do their very best. Putting all that you have garnered from this article into play makes a world of difference. Never stop seeking to improve your leadership skills or knowledge of your industry.

Enhance your leadership skills to WIN in any industry or setting you find yourself in picking up this handy resource.

Until next time…