How to be a good leader (regardless of your position)

Learn about the 7 skills of a good leader. 

1. Have courage

Phrases like "I need help" or "I am not sure how to do something" tend to put us in a condition of vulnerability. But conversely, the act of being able to show oneself in a more vulnerable position takes much courage and bravery.

Not knowing and, above all, not being able to do something is not easy to admit. That is why one of the attributes of a good leader is courage.

That does not mean one should lose the autonomy to research or learn something, but when one's time is compressed and he realizes that someone more experienced can make him check off his list more efficiently, ask for help.

2. Convergence and divergence

Are you familiar with the term double diamond ? This is a simple way to describe the Design Thinking process . In it, the terms converge and diverge are in constant use, and can help in the day-to-day life of a good leader.

Knowing how to listen to different opinions, considering the main points made by colleagues and encouraging everyone to speak is diverging opinions. While knowing how to argue and lead people to a single thought, after having listened to other colleagues, is converging opinions.

This process ensures that the plurality of teams is respected and encourages people to become more engaged, to give their opinions and, of course, to be more productive.

Questioning common opinions, proposing new solutions and showing openness to listening are the main characteristics of this topic. They are what help shape a good leader and help you stand out, even if you are not in a competition.

3. Neuroleadership

Neuroscience, according to IBC, encompasses all investigations into the nervous system aimed at unraveling its functions, structure, development, and possible changes. The nervous system is in charge of coordinating all our body's activities, whether they are voluntary or involuntary.

Therefore, neuroscience, in understanding people and their diversities, is essentially what a good leader must do since it all starts in the brain. After all, social interaction-even if bound within a pandemic-involves dealing with people and their feelings/emotions, which fall under this area of study.

In other words, understanding neuroscience allows us to better work on certain situations and build a more positive atmosphere, with creative, motivating biases that bring security to the environment.

4. You need to be cautious and know how to say no

Before taking on any new responsibilities, understand what is already in your daily scope and how the new role or project might affect your routine.

Understand that your leader , or direct supervisor, is able to guide you when you take on new risks or responsibilities, so it is necessary and very important that you know your limits, know how to ask for help and show that you have the interest and the necessary qualifications to perform the new functions and deliver the expected results.

Remember that projects don't necessarily need to be led by you. You can be part of the team, but have attitudes that make you stand out.

5. Show yourself and be trustworthy

When one knows his or her limits and knows how to say no, people start understanding that this person only takes on responsibilities which he could fulfill, like it was mentioned in the previous topic. As a result of this, you will be seen as somebody more trustworthy.

You want your colleagues to be comfortable with you, to know that any problems or issues they are having, they can always come to you with. In fact, this is one of the hallmarks of a natural leader, even when that leader holds no formal leadership position.

It is also worth highlighting that trust lies in integrity, confidentiality, honesty and respect.

6. Know how to prioritize

Knowing how to listen and being trustworthy is important, but a good leader is also able to prioritize their own needs. It is natural to want to solve several problems and help several colleagues, especially when we are going through the process of developing self-leadership. This is exactly why knowing how to prioritize becomes essential.

Understand that you are not the hero who will solve all problems alone. Know how to listen, try to guide and ask for help when necessary, but also learn to say that you are not able to help with certain problems.

7. Have a positive attitude

Imagine working alongside someone who complains all the time, self-sabotages and doesn't encourage other colleagues. Can you understand how tense the atmosphere can be and how unpleasant it can be to live with this person?

Positive attitudes can help you stand out in the company and create a healthy environment for everyone. Know how to take advantage of situations that went wrong, laugh at yourself, encourage your colleagues, be pleasant and help create a light-hearted atmosphere for everyone. In this case, example is the best teacher.

But remember the previous topic and know your limits. You don't need to be happy 100% of the time and you can withdraw or become more introverted when necessary. The important thing is not to transmit negative energy to other colleagues.