1. Be kind
Treat people with dignity and respect. Go out of your way to show genuine appreciation. Take every opportunity to say thank you. Be overly generous in giving away smiles. Be the bright spot when someone is having a tough day and be understanding. Show compassion. A leader sets the tone. Set a tone of kindness and love.
2. Be competent
Be a living example of dedication to lifelong learning. Approach what you do not as a job but as a craft. Set unreasonable standards for personal development and then exceed them. Demonstrate a growth mindset. Study a broad range of subjects. Be willing to unlearn things that no longer work. Always look for the lesson in everything that happens.
3. Help people succeed
Set clear expectations, so people know what it looks like to win. Coach. Mentor. Hold people accountable for delivering great work. Create a career path for them and support their growth. Give them opportunities. Increase their responsibilities. Help them try new things without being afraid to fail. Let them know you are on their team and want to help them succeed. Make it easy to win.
4. Be authentic
Tell the truth all the time. PERIOD. Don’t put on an act. Show vulnerability when appropriate. Work hard to make genuine connections. Be an empathetic leader. Be optimistic and encouraging. Deliver on your promises. Show people that you care about them as people, not just employees. Live your values in every action you take.
5. Listen
Don’t have all the ideas. Be curious. Ask lots of questions. Solicit feedback. Welcome criticism. Listen with your whole body. Watch for reactions and emotions. Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Don’t be distracted. Show that you are interested and focused. Don’t worry about what you’re going to say next. Think before you speak. Regulate your emotions. Create a safe space where people can say what is truly on their minds. Celebrate people who speak courageously.