Before I put together any presentation, I make sure to do my homework and research about the topic. I also try to find out as much as possible about the audience and some of their concerns. During my preparation, I learn many new things about the challenges people may be facing and how I might help them try new ways to overcome them. Gathering the facts and looking for the real issues helps me connect more deeply with my speech. This week was no exception as I gathered new insights into why leaders aren’t able to be more influential and make a greater impact on their teams.

Four eye-openers emerged from my research that helped me take a hard look at leading today. Can you relate to any of these leadership No-No’s? 

1. INDECISIVENESS

Taking a stand and making a decision is not always easy. It can sometimes make a leader feel uncomfortable if they know the decision may not be well received by everyone on the team. Deciding to go in a particular direction can even feel risky, and some leaders have difficulty with that balance as well.

To overcome indecisiveness:

• Be clear on your solution and be able to share your reasons
• Communicate your decision in an open and direct way
• Make time for questions and concerns
• Respect different points of view by actively listening
• Be enthusiastic about your choice and let the team know you appreciate their support and hard work

[Tweet “Leaders need to be decisive to be influential.”]

2. PROCRASTINATION

The problem with procrastination is that leaders are still left with the original concern and when ignored, situations can escalate. Even worse, when we don’t seize the chance to take action, it can result in a tremendous missed opportunity. When we procrastinate we aren’t leading our team forward.

To overcome procrastination:

• Stick with your deadlines unless something big forces you to re-evaluate
• Ask others for help and empower them to take charge using their areas of expertise
• Commit to being action oriented by setting clear SMART goals

3. LOW TRUST

Trust is the foundation of any relationship and without it we can’t be an influential leader. If the people we work with can’t depend on us to be honest and transparent, we will be standing alone. I see many workplaces where rumors circulate and employees don’t feel valued. When there is a climate of untrustworthiness there is higher turnover, less collaboration and disengaged people. An organization or team that has a lack of trust has a lack of future leadership.

To overcome low trust:

• Show an interest and concern for the people you see each day
• Be vulnerable yourself by sharing some of your missteps and lessons learned
• Follow through on what you say you are going to do
• Be a coach or a mentor and demonstrate your belief in other’s strengths and abilities

[Tweet “To overcome a lack of trust, leaders must believe in their team’s abilities.”]

4. CONTROL FREAK

Letting go is not easy, especially when you feel that your reputation is on the line. But here’s the thing. Even if you think no one can do it as well as you can, you can’t own everything. And if you try to control it all, something will eventually fall through the cracks. Additionally, team members will not grow and become the future leaders they are meant to be if they are not held accountable.

To overcome being a control freak:

• Develop a trust level for your team members by working with them and learning about their strengths and gifts
• Empower others to try new things and stretch their skill set
• Honor others by giving them meaningful and high level work
• Feel how good it is to see new leaders grow

Are you ready to tackle the four leadership No-No’s? What other No-No’s have you overcome?

 (photo credit: Flickr creative commons-Chris James)