Gossiping: Talking behind one’s back is a risky stress buster. You have a problem with someone, avoid sharing that with people other than your mentors who are genuinely concerned and can advise you accordingly.
Micromanaging: Many leaders have a problem of letting go and hence want to oversee every step of work. This signifies a sense of mistrust on the leader’s part. Employees sense the insecurity and become repelled from such working conditions.
Using Social Media As A Tool For Venting Out: Facebook and Twitter are public platforms and it is not very leader-like to use them as tools to let out personal frustrations regarding work or an employee. Steer clear of making strong political statements that could misrepresent your company.
Encouraging Groupism/Favouritism: Leaders, however good, fall into the trap of favouring one above the other. We all have our personal favourites; that’s how human beings are wired but making it apparent at the workplace is not advisable. Groupism at the workplace is an unhealthy work environment and leads to blame games, jealousy & inferiority complexes.
Indulging in Self Praise: Always looking for the scope to bloat about one’s achievements, downplaying others’ efforts or contributions is not very likeable. In fact, asking questions, showing interest in other people’s work, curiosity to know something new and sharing words of encouragement or praise about someone’s work are what attracts people to you more. They’ll be more interested to get to know a humble and genuine leader.
Bringing Down The Energy Of The Workplace: Human beings are connected through technology, but what connects them, even more, is the energy or vibes they share together. Positive or uplifted energies always keep spirits high even during challenging times and as a leader you should encourage such energies. Being the leader, you will have a lot of things going on in your mind but the trick to keep a smile and say only positive things and not let your worries bring down the energy at the workplace.
Contemporary leadership in new business outfits are quite different from traditional companies. They are more dynamic, trust instincts more than the rulebook and work with an uber-cool attitude that liberates employees and gives them scope to work beyond their potential. But certain qualities of a leader never change and those are the ones must honour, no matter what.
