5 Strategies to Be a Better Leader

Whether it’s heading up a home-improvement project, serving the community, or leading others at work, chances are you’re already embracing the leader within you—and helping others do the same. But what do the best leaders have in common? The answer is ongoing self-improvement, which can be accomplished using these five leadership strategies:

Take the lead on a team project. One of the simplest ways to take the lead at work is by heading up a project that needs tackling. By organizing meetings, delegating tasks, and seeing the project from start-to-finish, you’ll become the leader by default.
Seek out personal and professional development. When pursuing learning opportunities, you’ll inspire others to do so, as well. Whether it’s a certification, lecture, or internal training, you’ll inevitably walk away with more know-how.
Become an innovator. Be willing to challenge the status quo. Look for gaps to fill—for colleagues and other people you serve.When you become curious about understanding people’s needs and wants, you’re better able to develop solutions that solve problems and make an impact.
Create opportunities for others to share. When it comes to leadership, a true leader is a great facilitator and brings out the best in others. Do you encourage others to speak up and bring out the best in them? Think about how you can do more of this throughout your day.
Master communication and emotional intelligence. Research shows that leaders have a high quotient of emotional intelligence and strong communication skills. Through better self-awareness, you are more able to lead others around you. Asking for feedback, voicing your ideas, and initiating conversations are a few ways to help you better communicate.