How to lead a team

One of the biggest challenge leaders face is how to not only develop their own skills but those of their team members at the same time. Leaders are very good at challenging themselves but often not so good in challenging their teammates. I would like to share a few tips today how to improve on that front.

1.       Learn to Listen

It is extremely important for a leader to listen to the aspirations and concerns of the people in his team. Listening creates awareness, as well as an environment of trust and openness, which is very important for the operation of an effective team.

2.       Be ready to be challenges and challenge others

Leaders have to be ready to be challenged and questioned by their team. Team members have to be allowed to question and criticise the leader for decisions made. Only then, will the team be able to grow together through an open and honest exchange of ideas to find ways to work with maximum efficiency.

3.       Let others take ownership

Leaders have to be able to take ownership, but they also have to let other do so. Only letting other members of the team own their individual areas of responsibility, will allow them to grow their skills and develop on a professional as well as personal level. The leader therefore has to trust his team and know which task to give to which team member based on their individual abilities.

4.       Celebrate successes

A leader has to be able to celebrate successes with the team. Nothing can be achieved without the team and every single member of it is important and contributes to its overall success. Celebrating those successes is bonding and will help the team move closer together.

Leading a team is one of the most difficulty tasks, as every member will have different skills, characteristics and ways of working. Leading a team therefore means to appreciate this and learn how to make the best use out of every member of the team to help achieve the overall goals in the most effective and efficient way.