Being a leader isn’t only about guiding and coaching your direct reports – it’s also about investing the effort to improve your leadership. The most effective leaders know the value of self-development and intentionally develop their skills over time.
Some skills are especially important, according to executive leadership coach Lolly Daskal. She points out a study from the Center for Creative Leadership that finds that leaders who excel in certain core competencies are more effective and have a more substantial impact on their companies’ bottom lines.
In her work, Daskal says she often teaches clients how to master these competencies, which aren’t just nice to have but necessary to lead effectively. In this issue of PromoPro Daily, we outline her thoughts on the core leadership skills every leader should cultivate.
Core skill No. 1: Strategic vision. Make sure your team knows where you’re headed by providing clear direction. Get them excited about what’s to come.
Core skill No. 2: Persuasive communication. Remember that your words have the power to persuade, which can drive alignment and action across the board, Daskal says.
Core skill No. 3: Emotional agility. This key skill helps you foster more genuine relationships with your team members. When you learn how to read the emotional undercurrents of your team, Daskal says, you can lead with more understanding and finesse.
Core skill No. 4: Decisive action. Work on developing this skill so you can move with speed and precision instead of faltering. Daskal says that when the moment to decide arrives, effective leaders act decisively.
Core skill No. 5: Adaptive innovation. According to Daskal, leaders today must champion adaptability and foster a culture where innovation thrives amidst change. Work on this skill so you will be flexible enough to pivot when needed.
Core skill No. 6: Inspirational motivation. Inspired teams are more motivated and engaged in their work. Consider how you can ignite passion in your sales team. How can you encourage them to strive for excellence and go above and beyond?
Core skill No. 7: Unwavering integrity. Integrity is the foundation of trust. Daskal says it’s critical for the sustained success of any team or organization, so make sure you have a solid moral compass.
If you’re looking for ways to continually improve as a leader, start with the ideas above. Whether you focus on enhancing your communication skills, your emotional intelligence or your adaptability, you can hone these core leadership skills to become the best possible leader for your team.
PromoPro Daily is pausing for Independence Day. We’ll be back on July 5. Enjoy the festivities and fireworks!
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Lolly Daskal is one of the world’s most sought-after leadership coaches. She’s the founder of Lead from Within, a global leadership, executive coaching and consulting firm based in New York City.
