7 Critical Tips For Leading Teams

Martin Webster -

If you want to get the best from a team, we’ve got seven critical tips for team leaders. As you review this list, think about your behaviour and how this affects people around you.

The Lazy Leader's Tips for Team Leaders

United we stand; divided we fall. – Aesop

Build the right environment for the team

  • Let your values guide you and be an authentic leader.
  • Focus on people and the team’s purpose. Don’t let distractions unsettle the team.
  • Make sure everyone knows what is important and what must be achieved. Plan and set meaningful objectives.

Choose your team wisely

  • Pay very close attention to recruitment and appoint the best people available.
  • Match people’s skills to every task, and play to their strengths.
  • Encourage knowledge sharing and teamwork, and build this into your team meetings.
  • Put the team plan into action and check progress.
  • Get the best from each team member by setting expectations and managing performance.

Listen to the team

  • Pay attention to how you are perceived, and make necessary adjustments.
  • Walk in the team’s shoes to understand their experiences and difficulties.
  • Open your eyes to participation: delegate and empower more often.

Aim high

  • Put the customer at the heart of what you do.
  • Encourage your team to embrace new ways of working.
  • Help everyone through periods of change.

Share successes

  • Show the team how and why they make a difference.
  • Recognize and celebrate achievements.
  • Do right by those who do right, even though this is not always the easiest path.
All your strength is in union. All your danger is in discord. – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Deal with poor performance

  • Confront performance problems early.
  • Coach the team, especially those in the middle.
  • Don’t forget to credit your top performers.

Perform

  • Set a good example: walk the talk.
  • Establish guidelines and accountability.
  • Remember, everyone counts!
A leader is defined by his followers.

What is the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned? Do you have any tips for team leaders? You are welcome to share your experience in the comments.