In the workplace, managers often yearn to be at the top, to be a ‘leader’, to have more responsibility. Our innate tendency to continuously climb upwards, is a classic trait of humanity and the natural desire to reach the top of the (organisational) hierarchy.
Yet more responsibility also means more expectations, and as a result, more pressure. Not only are you developing a team, but a whole new version of yourself.
To be a transformational leader, you must be positive, empowering, and self-aware. Unfortunately, in today’s workplace, (and society in general), in the race to reach the top, people often become ‘leaders’ before they’ve figured this stuff out.
In order to become an effective leader, it’s important to understand the key differences between a manager, and a leader.
A manager will also most likely set your goals, while the company leader(s) set the vision and drive the business forward.
So, what’s the difference between a good and great leader? You can be a good leader and impress your leadership team by getting the job done. However, a great leader doesn’t just focus on the tasks required of them.
To help summarise, here’s HappyHQ’s 10 traits of a positive leader:
- Trusting. Trust awakens the possibility in people. Rather than micromanage their team(s), the best leader’s, coaches, and mentors trust their team members to get the job done.
- Self-aware. They are comfortable with their position and leadership style, how it affects others and how people view them.
- Authentic. They are human which means they are not afraid to bring their real self to work, to be vulnerable, and admit their mistakes so people can learn through them.
- Inspiring. People are motivated by leaders who set a great example, and have the ability to encourage, empower and energise.
- Value-driven. Ignites a sense of shared purpose to create positive change. They ensure the company’s vision is clearly understood amongst teams and create initiatives so that people feel engaged in the company’s mission.
- Inclusive. aware of their own biases so will actively seek out different views and perspectives before making a decision.
- Connectors. Cultivate an effective and collaborative team spirit by understanding individual strengths. Innovation thrives because the team feel safe to share their ideas and knowledge without judgement. People are encouraged to Fail Happy!
- Honest and open communicator. Actively listens and gives instant, constructive feedback.
- Empathetic. A strong sense of personal integrity. They truly care about their people’s happiness levels, both inside and outside of work. They also place importance on everyone’s wellbeing.
- Open to feedback. Opportunity for feedback (positive or negative) is welcomed as a means of improvement. Positive leaders are dedicated to continuous learning.
If you’re currently climbing the leadership ladder, have you taken a moment to think, have you got what it takes to be a positive leader?
At HappyHQ, we believe a positive culture can be unlocked in every workplace. It just takes a collaborative effort to ensure that everyone has a voice. This means listening to everyone’s current perceptions, feedback, and ideas on ways your company can radiate happiness.
To find out about our methodology click here.
