- Micromanaging. When leaders micromanage, they unintentionally undermine their team. It is natural to want to help, however, too much guidance can feel like impatience, worry, or mistrust to others. As a leader, you want to instill confidence in people. You can do this by allowing employees to figure things out themselves. Let them struggle (a little bit) and make mistakes! This process builds self-efficacy.
- Avoiding Conflict. Conflict can be uncomfortable, and it may seem easier to avoid than face it. But, when leaders do not address conflict, things can fester and become much larger issues than they were initially. It is best to handle conflict as it arises and “nip it in the bud!”
- Not Delivering. Leaders must keep their word and make commitments. When leaders do not deliver, their team will feel disappointment and mistrust. It is crucial to be transparent and realistic- especially when the same is expected of others.
- Taking on Unnecessary Work. Taking on extra work often originates from an “if you want something done right, do it yourself” attitude. This is dangerous because it creates unnecessary responsibility for you as a leader, as well as undermines your team’s ability to reach their potential. It is important to communicate your needs with people clearly, so they understand what is expected of them, and challenge them to improve their performance.
- Lacking Vision. As a leader, it is your responsibility to set a clear vision that will align your team and your organization. People need a vision so that they can work together toward a common goal. Remind them of the vision often!
Five Mistakes Leaders Often Make- UNITENTIONALLY!
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Dear Dr. Mimi – Frustrated
Dear Dr. Mimi, I trained a new employee about a month ago, but they still don’t seem to be getting it. They mess up almost every task I give them. What can I do to fix this? Should I just fire them? —Frustrated Dear Frustrated, It can be tricky working with new employees. If you…
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Dear Dr. Mimi – Overwhelmed
Dear Dr. Mimi, My spouse and I now both work full-time jobs and have a three-year-old. I had been home full-time while my spouse worked. Our son is in day care and seems to love it, but I am unsure how to balance having a family, being an employee, and doing well in both jobs.…
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Monitoring Productivity
It may be daunting to look at your schedule for the coming months. Here are a few tips to help you stay on task and monitor your productivity: Clarify the vision. What do you hope to achieve? How will you accomplish this? Get specific! Define the milestones you aim to reach. Sit down and devote…