- 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 – Backup
Dear Dr. Mimi,My boss favors another employee and schedules them for more shifts. We are on the same skill level and have had the same training, but I am being treated like a “backup” for them. I am afraid to bring this up to my manager for fear that they will reprimand or even fire…
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Dear Dr. Mimi – Overworked Student
Dear Dr. Mimi,I am a working college student, and my company is supposed to be accommodating to students’ schedules. However, my boss keeps asking me to come into work at times she knows that I have classes or study groups. I have tried to make this issue known to her, but she keeps dismissing me.…
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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 think they are…