If you’re a business owner, you’re a leader – whether you want to be or not. For some business owners, building and leading a team, getting the most out of people, and nurturing talent are some of the most rewarding aspects of the job. It’s what gets them out of bed with a spring in their step.
Yet, for some others, the people side of things is like The Exorcist, the average Luther murder scene and Brexit all rolled into one. The stuff of nightmares, in other words.
Anyone can be a great leader
The truth is, leadership does come naturally to a fortunate few. But the vast majority of effective business leaders, and even those with natural talent, have to work at it. They develop and perfect their leadership skills over time. They cultivate certain leadership-enhancing habits, like communicating a clear purpose, delegating and giving praise. And they’re not afraid to seek support to become a better leader.
It’s the classic ‘nature versus nurture’ debate. Except, when it comes to leadership, there’s not much to debate – nurture nearly always trumps nature. That means it doesn’t matter whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert, a confident communicator or someone who measures their words, a ‘big picture’ visionary or a details person, you can learn to be a great leader.
No one else will lead your business for you
Being able to let go and delegate is part of being a strong leader. But, ironically, if you’re the owner and active in your business, the one thing you can’t delegate is leadership. Like it or not, it falls to you as the business owner to communicate and reinforce key messages about the business’s purpose, values and goals. It’s you who sets the tone for the business and provides direction.
The good news is, as the person setting the tone and providing direction, the best way to lead is by being authentic. Why try to be a gregarious raconteur, famed for giving off-the-cuff, inspirational speeches, if that’s not who you are? You don’t need a personality transplant to be a great leader; you just need support to develop your own personal leadership style. Leadership coaching and mentoring can work wonders in this regard, and that’s where we can help.
At Henchards, we’ll work with you to boost your leadership skills and become the leader your business needs. For more on leading your business, check out our latest leadership video, or talk to Henchards about developing your authentic leadership style.