Do you have what it takes to be an effective leader?
5 Nov, 2019
Ted Coss shares the critical skills leaders will need in 2020.
Over the years, I’ve watched leadership styles evolve from upper management making all of the decisions to a much more collaborative approach, involving input from employees across the entire enterprise. In order to remain effective in the modern workplace, leaders must learn to adapt.
I recently read an article in Inc. by Maureen Kline, that I thought really hit the nail on the head.
Here are Kline’s picks (along with one of my own) of the top five skills that all leaders of the future will need:
1. Big-picture vision. Leaders will need the ability to seek value for all stakeholders at the same time. A company’s ecosystem of stakeholders includes not only its shareholders, but also its employees, customers, suppliers, communities, and natural capital. I agree—leaders need to be able to envision the ripple effects of any action on all these stakeholders, and act strategically and proactively to engage them as partners in a common journey.
2. Deep listening. Engaging with stakeholders, includes the ability to listen to them on a deep level, which means opening oneself, letting go of preconceived ideas and foregone conclusions, connecting to others, and honoring all voices and contributions. Great innovations can come from an assembly line worker, a quiet team member, or even a granddaughter. A successful leader of the future will need to be receptive. Again, collaboration is key.
3. Authenticity. Leaders will need to be able to follow their intuition with clarity and confidence, says Kline. I’ll take that a step further—authentic leaders are willing to express themselves honestly, will ask the difficult questions and take appropriate action.
4. Courage. Decisions to radically change course will sometimes need to be made. Kline notes that when big-picture vision gives us insight into imbalances in a system that will eventually become unsustainable, we will need to courageously call for a new strategy.
5. Transparency. Although this was not on the top five list, it should be on yours. You’ve probably heard this before: Employees don’t quit jobs, they quit their bosses. Transparent leadership is the key to fostering a culture of trust between leaders and their employees. Employees who are kept in the loop and understand their role in the overarching purpose and goals of the company are more likely to put their trust in their employer.
If your organization is looking for the next transformational leader please consider Buckman Enochs Coss and Associates, your 360-degree healthcare executive search firm.
