Leadership isn't a natural gift for everyone. Here are six strategies to improve your leadership skills.

Consider influential figures like Hillary Clinton, Ursula Burns, Mary Barra, and Indra Nooyi. What sets successful leaders apart from others who struggle to gain traction? Is it an exceptionally high IQ, charisma, or a powerful network? Perhaps. Yet, it often boils down to their dedication to growth.

1. Maintain Consistency

According to a significant study by Barry Conchie, president of Conchie Associates, which surveyed over 20,000 individuals globally, the top trait employees admire in respected leaders is the ability to communicate stability.

This means you must reassure your team that your core values remain steadfast regardless of circumstances. “If people perceive your values as negotiable, you risk appearing insincere,” Conchie states.

While it’s easier to demonstrate consistency during good times, it becomes crucial during challenges. This is when you must clearly demonstrate that certain principles are unwavering. Whether it's a company-wide commitment to client care or a supervisor consulting their team before a significant decision, clarity is key.

Refine your values and ensure your messaging reflects them in daily interactions.

2. Foster Positive Relationships

As the saying goes, you attract more flies with honey. Being kind goes a long way. “If you lack genuine concern for your team, they won't care about you either,” Conchie explains. “Leaders who value their employees often enjoy substantial mutual benefits.”

Kindness not only drives motivation but empowers your team to achieve greater success. Conchie’s findings show a strong link between compassion and high employee engagement along with low turnover rates.

Make an effort to engage with each team member. Even small gestures can create significant impacts. “Leaders often spend minimal one-on-one time with team members and show little interest in their lives,” Conchie notes. “Take time to connect personally.”

3. Build Trust

Trust is as vital in the workplace as it is in personal relationships. Conchie's research indicates that trust in leadership can elevate employee engagement sixfold, enhancing productivity.

“Leadership isn’t automatically granted with a title; it’s earned from those who follow you,” Conchie emphasizes. “Your team will be more committed if you are honest, avoid surprises, and share information.”

Gaining trust takes time. Ensure your employees recognize you as someone who follows through on commitments and practices transparency. “Trust is about consistent behavior,” Conchie explains. “Always do what you say you will.”

Moreover, establish clear methods for addressing arising issues. Some employees feel confident in anticipating their leader’s actions, while others struggle with unpredictable managers. Consistency matters.

Trust also involves being upfront. Clearly communicate your plans and strategies. “Don’t shield people from the truth,” Conchie advises. “Frame it as a shared journey.” This approach fosters trust and camaraderie.

4. Cultivate Positivity

Former President Obama’s slogan “Yes we can” resonated because it instilled hope and optimism—qualities strong leaders possess. “They inspire a belief that the future holds promise,” says Conchie. Research shows that 75% of employees who feel optimistic about the future are engaged, compared to just eight percent with less inspiring leadership.

To implement this, ask yourself and your team what excites them. “This isn't naive optimism,” Conchie warns. “It’s about identifying ways to improve through purposeful dialogue.” Set meetings around these goals and create actionable plans.

Lastly, conclude regular meetings with inspiring ideas, such as projects where team members can make a meaningful impact, ensuring everyone leaves feeling empowered.

5. Empower Others

A robust team amplifies your influence. “Identify the strengths of your employees and discover how to tap into their potential,” suggests Joanna Barash, author of How Remarkable Women Lead. She recommends one-on-one meetings to uncover team members' skills. Ask questions such as:

  • What tasks do you lose track of time on?
  • What activities excited you as a child?
  • What traits do you value in yourself at different life stages?

These discussions may reveal undiscovered talents. For instance, if an employee recalls their creativity from childhood, consider involving them in brainstorming sessions to harness that insight.

“When people feel valued, they are more motivated and engaged,” Barash states. Research from the University of California, Riverside, supports that positive perceptions from managers lead to improved performance.

6. Take Responsibility for Your Choices

A vital mindset shift is necessary for effective leadership: instead of viewing yourself as a passive employee, embrace your role in shaping your career path.

“Leaders radiate confidence, decisiveness, and purpose, qualities that inspire others to follow,” Barash remarks. “Even when faced with unchangeable circumstances, remember you always have choices.”

Start by defining your vision for success. “Reflect on your daily feelings,” Barash advises. “Are you energetic, focused, and content? Identify any negativity and explore its roots.”

Engage trusted friends for objective perspectives. “Leaders introspect to understand their motivations,” Barash adds. “Then, they choose to pivot towards paths that foster growth.”

Ultimately, aim to clarify your priorities and find ways to progress towards them.