Everyone says actions speak louder than words. While that may be true, business leaders may sometimes struggle to set a good example for the rest of their team. Indeed, figuring out how to interact with your employees is one of the most important elements of successful business leadership. Thankfully, today we’ll share some concrete things that entrepreneurs can do to inspire and motivate their staff. Here are four ways you can start leading by example right now:
Show up Early, Stay Late
If you plan on asking your team members to work hard, then you need to display a strong work ethic yourself. As a boss, you should strive to be the first person in the office and the last one to leave. This will demonstrate to everyone that you are present and dedicated to the cause. Of course, you won’t always be able to be at the office 24/7. But the fact remains that in order to connect with your team, you need to be available to them. Getting to the office early and staying late will allow you to do that.
Get Your Hands Dirty
Business leaders should never “be above” working directly with their team members. All of the best managers find ways to help their employees perform at their best. If you have to sit down with a professional to craft an email with them or to go over expense reports together, then so be it. Business leaders should have an understanding of every aspect of their company.
Keep Your Promises
If you say you’re going to do something, then you have an obligation to follow through. Keeping your promises might sound like a basic thing, but it can establish trust with your team and ensure they listen to you when you speak. Bottom line: don’t ever offer something to your team that you can’t actually deliver.
Participate
Business leaders need to play an active role in meetings and collaboration sessions in order to encourage good communication among their colleagues. Often, business leaders have to get the ball rolling with presentations or brief speeches. Be ready to participate in various activities! For example, business leaders should work with employees during training sessions. (Note, you can check out tips from EJ4 to spice up your staff-training meetings.) Professionals will take cues from how you behave on a regular basis. So just simply acting with energy and giving your full attention to others will help your team members get involved as well.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best way to lead by example is to work hard and be yourself. Employees appreciate when bosses are genuine and honest, and it never hurts to be upfront with your team. A little transparency can go a long way!