6. Refuse to respond in anger.
When a team member fails, don’t explode. If you’re mad, go somewhere to cool off before you address the issue. When you explode, you make the people you lead afraid of telling you when something is wrong. Losing your temper is the fastest way to create a culture where your followers lie to your face and cover up their mistakes. Can you say, “unhealthy?”
7. Apologize.
When you make a mistake, admit it. Tell your followers that you regret your actions. DON’T MAKE EXCUSES or say, “I’m sorry, but…” Just say, “I’m sorry.” The people you lead don’t expect you to be perfect, but they do want you to be humble.
8. Send hand-written notes.
In an era of e-mails, texts, tweets and Facebook wall posts, it’s truly astounding to be given a hand-written note. Send hand-written apologies, thank yous, and notes of encouragement. Your team will be moved by the fact that you’ve taken a little extra time for them.
9. Strive for excellence.
My former pastor, Craig Groeschel, often says, “Excellence honors God and inspires people.” I couldn’t agree more. As you strive for and expect excellence, your team will respond. People want to do remarkable things. They want what they do to matter. Aiming for quality results contributes to a culture of excitement, hope, confidence, and expectation.
10. Do what you say.
Nothing will undermine your leadership influence faster than inconsistency. Never forget; people judge themselves by their intentions, but they judge you by your actions. When you don’t do what you say, people begin to think you lack integrity. They may overlook it at first, but eventually, they’ll think you are full of hot air (at best) or an outright liar (at worst). Do your absolute best to always follow through on all of your commitments no matter what!
