Every organisation needs strong leadership at the top. That’s obvious, but it’s also not enough: leaders are needed throughout the company, in every area and at every level.
When you have people with leadership potential in roles where they can make important decisions, be innovative in order to achieve goals and reach targets and feed the bottom line, you’ll really have a thriving, strong and “future-proofed” organisation.
One of the best things you can do as a senior leader is to encourage people in your organisation to take on leadership and responsibilities where possible.
You may think you do this already – but all our research suggests that people don’t feel they can make decisions or be innovative.
Here are some ways you can make it happen:
Create a compelling vision tied to a strong sense of purpose
It’s a combination that gives people the energy and passion to be creative, innovative, responsible and accountable. Thinking in terms of a “mission” greater than “what they do”, they feel empowered to bring out their best. Seek out and hire people who resonate with, and are excited by, the organisation’s vision, and provide ways for them to help fulfil its purpose.
Identify the right people to do the right things
One of the best ways to empower people is to recognise their talents and give them jobs that feed their strengths. It begins with having the right people—those who can elevate themselves into leadership roles via their competence and capabilities—doing the right things and gaining confidence along the way.
Encourage decisiveness and accountability
One important trait of being a leader is the ability to make decisions, be innovative and to be accountable for your actions. When you give your team members autonomy and authority, you’re telling them you trust them. And when you show trust, most—if not all—will step up and surprise you with how much they can do if they know you are counting on them.
Promote collaboration and cooperation
It’s frustrating and difficult when an organisation is structured in silos; the best companies foster cross-functional teams that cut across departmental boundaries to take full advantage of the ideas and expertise of all employees. Any time you put people together, encourage teamwork, collaboration and cooperation, and reward those who take on extra initiatives. This practice will encourage people to display their leadership skills and is a great investment for the business at large.
If you want people to take on leadership roles, communicate with transparency and share information freely. Only when they have information can employees make sound decisions, achieve their goals and reach their targets to step up to their leadership roles.
Additional reading: 7 Steps To Becoming An Inspirational Leader
