Being a good leader seems easy, however, becoming the kind of leader that everyone wants to emulate is a lot more difficult than it appears.
It takes skills learnt from more than just a leadership conference or the latest inspirational book sweeping bookshelves in Nairobi.
To get on the path to be a great leader, a few skills are needed.
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Here are 6 tips to help you become an exceptional leader.
1. Active listening
This allows you to connect better with your peers. It includes being active in conversations with everyone- from your equals to your subordinates and even the office wardens. It helps you resolve conflicts easier.
2. Go out of your way to interact
Don't lock yourself in your office. Sit with your subordinates. Allow them to act as normal around you. You can be a friend, a mentor, an equal and a boss. In most cases, people in the office are already aware of your authority. But they shouldn't see it as a prevention of being comfortable at work.
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3. Build self esteem
Don't be the manager who lives to tear down workers. It's not necessary. Be firm when scolding but not explosive. You're dealing with a human not a house set for demolition.
4. When dealing with errors don't treat employees like children
People make mistakes. If they fall outside of the parameters set by office, go ahead and terminate the individual without fanfare. Don't ask rhetorical questions and demand answers. Don't try embarrass them in front of their colleagues. Don't display their mistakes for people to mock. This only brews distrust and makes employees want to leave as soon as possible. And an unwilling work force isn't good for business.
5. Don't judge your employees
Don't put too much stock on superficial qualities such as diction. Not everyone speaks English as a first language. Don't ask thoughtless questions about sexual orientation, religion or race. Everyone should feel welcome in your presence. Even if they suffer from chronic body odour.
6. Don't participate in gossip
Or participate in any form of cattiness. You should have the finesse of a career diplomat when dealing with unpleasant people. Everyone who works with you should not know if you like someone else more than them.