Successful leaders recognize the value of empowering workers to perform to the best of their ability. Many leaders agree that by empowering others you get the best results but getting started can be challenging.
Leading by example
The empowering process begins with healthy and strong leaders who are willing to lessen their grip and trust their people. Each person on a team is an extension of your leadership; if they feel trusted and empowered by you, they will follow your example to lead.
Struggling to empower others
As you have navigated your way up the business ladder, you’ve been able to grow along with your business. But at some point, you need to start handing things off to others if you are to continue to keep pace with the business’s growth. Trusting your employees to take on new responsibilities helps motivate them to do their best and frees you up to take your business to the next level.
Provide clear expectations
Your picture of empowerment needs to match that of your people. Be specific in what they have authority to do. While it’s best explained when someone first joins your organization, it’s important to recognize that it’s an ever-changing process and should be regularly communicated to avoid confusion.
Get out of their way
In the end, once you give your trusted employees the tools they need to succeed, you don’t need to do much other than allow them to develop their own authority and leadership voice. By scheduling regular check-ins, you can provide advice and oversight but leave the day-to-day hands-on to them.
For help developing more effective leadership skills to enhance your business, contact the Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County. Conveniently located in Camarillo, California, we’re here to help.
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