Whether you’re an executive of a company, a manager in a department or even a line employee, everyone should learn how to become a better leader.

Many people think of a leader as one who must inspire by giving speeches and getting folks excited. Others think of a leader as a person who bullies, yells and threatens.

While a leader can inspire, it’s not absolutely required. And while a leader needs to be able to make the tough calls when needed, a great leader is never a bully.

Read below for some tips on how to become a better leader.

• First, watch how you interact with people. Do you interrupt conversations? How do people react to you when you speak?
• Take the time to talk to and really listen to your staff members. And we mean really listen. Listening show respect and great leaders respect those who work for them. In fact, it’s wise to occasionally listen more than you speak. Try it sometime; you’ll learn a ton.
• Whether you’re an executive or someone who wants to be promoted into a leadership role, take a look at your mistakes and analyze what went wrong and what you could have done to alleviate the mistake. Take note of this analysis for the future.
• Accept responsibility. No leader ever becomes one without this critical step and attribute. Own your shortcomings and mistakes.
• Praise and applaud your staff members for their successes.
• Be trustworthy. Do what you say you will do. Don’t ask your team members to do nothing you wouldn’t do. Never lie. Don’t talk behind your team members’ backs.
• Don’t be afraid to ask question. Be open and honest.
• Provide guidance and support but also be willing to pitch in and do the grunt work when necessary. Work harder than anyone on your team when you do so and be sure to praise team members for their added efforts.
• Help your staff members to get where they want to go. Talk to them about their goals for their careers and help them achieve them. Does someone want a promotion? Create a plan with the employee, with clear and set deadlines, that will take the worker step-by-step towards his or her goal. And, of course, reward the employee with the promotion when those expectations are met.
• Play with your staff members. That is, join the company softball team. Put a department retreat together that includes team-building exercises and be sure to join in them yourself. Have fun with your colleagues!

Contact Arrow Staffing, the leading recruiting/staffing firm in the Inland Empire for all of your staffing needs. Whether you need workers for short- or long-term temporary assignments, or recruiting for direct-hire opportunities, we can help. Contact us today.