Being a Strong Leader: Tips on Making Decisions, Coaching Employees, and Communicating Effectively

November 1st, 2022

As a leader, you wear many hats. In addition to overseeing others, you are also likely to be in charge of making important decisions, coaching employees through situations, and communicating with team members about important matters. To better develop effective leadership skills that will help you be successful in each of these areas, follow the guidelines below.

As someone who makes decisions, you should:

  • Think things through. Don't decide too hastily, and make sure to consider alternatives. Employees can be a great resource. Ask them for input regarding decisions when appropriate.
  • Take risks, but know the consequences before you jump.
  • Admit when you make a mistake, and use it as a learning tool. Share with others the lessons that you have been taught.

As a coach who guides employees, you should:

  • Envision the goals that you and your team can accomplish. Seek and share the goals with your team, motivating them to get there.
  • Show each member of the team that you are interested in his or her success. Notice unique skills and talents, and work with each member to develop them.
  • Help resolve differences between team members. You can act as a mediator between two employees who don't see eye-to-eye. When doing this, make sure you are fair and supportive to each employee.
  • Be enthusiastic and honest to each employee. This will inspire them to be the same way.

As a communicator, you should:

  • Give the employee your full attention when he or she is speaking to you. Don't be quick to criticize or judge, hear the person out, and think before you speak.
  • Check if employees understand goals.
  • Give feedback to employees. This can be constructive criticism, but make sure you present it in an encouraging and supportive way. Be specific when an employee needs to make a change.
  • Be calm when stressful situations arise. Be the voice of reason when things are tough.
  • When communicating praise or criticism, use "I" statements to demonstrate how you feel. For example, "I was impressed by your latest presentation to our clients," or, "I was hurt by what you said to co-workers about the team leaders."