10 Common Leadership Mistakes

Being a leader is challenging enough without having to deal with the potential negative fallout associated with the 10 common leadership mistakes listed below. Take a moment and ask yourself if you might be making one or more of these mistakes. If so, identify some action steps that will help you avoid these mistakes in the future.

Relate Well!
Todd E. Linaman, Ph.D.

1. Making yourself scarce

Workers appreciate a visible leader - someone who takes a personal interest in the work that's being done by taking the time to get to know those who are doing it.

2. Allowing the vision to fade

Good leaders are able to keep the vision of the organization fresh and focused. The consistent presence of a well-defined vision provides motivation, enthusiasm and purpose for those responsible for carrying it out.

3. Creating a moving target

Change happens, but leaders who constantly modify or change key objectives fail to maintain their team's trust, respect and confidence.

4. Correcting without affirming

Correction is most effective when preceded by affirmation. Employees who know their positive qualities and accomplishments are appreciated are more open to corrective feedback when it's needed.

5. Assigning responsibility without authority

When giving someone the responsibility to produce specific results, make sure they also have the freedom and independence to make the decisions that will get the job done.

6. Do as I say, not as I do.?/b>

When it comes to achieving results, there is no substitute for leadership by example.

7. Putting square pegs in round holes

The time it takes to properly assess an employee's strengths, knowledge and skills is time well-invested because it helps to reduce costly turnover and improve productivity and performance.

8. Inability to control anger

A leader who cannot bridle his anger is a leader who is feared rather than respected.

9. Focusing on me?rather than we?/b>

The most effective leaders are those who are passionate about the achievement of the whole team, not just of their own accomplishments.

10. Placing results ahead of people

Great leaders know that the best way to get the most favorable results is to make sure they favor the people responsible for them.Dr. Todd E. Linaman is a licensed psychologist and the President of Relational Advantage, Inc. Dr. Linaman is also a conference speaker, published author and expert in the area of personal, professional and organizational development. RAI provides quality coaching, consulting and training for family owned businesses, executives, managers and other business professionals. For information concerning RAI services please contact Dr. Linaman at (520) 219-8377 or via e-mail at DrLinaman@RelationalAdvantage.com.