Misconceptions about Leadership

A few major misconceptions outlined surrounding leadership, for both work and life. 

Table of contents

Leadership Misconceptions [edit]

Negative Characteristics 

Equally important as following the common positive characteristics of good leaders, is avoiding commonly sighted negative characteristics. 

Not Listening: Listening is important to building a loyal and faithful team. Everyone needs to be part of the process and bigger picture. 

Dismissing ideas other than your own: Don’t make employees feel like they are pitching to you, encourage them to brainstorm alongside you. Understand their potential and give credit where it is due. 

Accepting Experience over potential: Note that some of your best talents will come from passionate individuals. Take advantage of their enthusiasm and their fresh outlook on the industry. 

Ego: Release your ego and focus on becoming an inspirational figure. Look out for your team because if you are without their full support, you will get nowhere. 

Overworking: Set an example for your team and learn how to take a break. Make sure your mind isn’t always focused upon one thing; work. It could cause a negative atmosphere and your team may also think they have to follow suit and work all hours. 

Lack of empathy: Leaders must do their best to remove obstacles so a team can prosper. 

Under-prioritising leadership development: Create a growth plan for your team and encourage them to become leaders within their departments. Give them a personal goal and build their enthusiasm. 

Being too conservative: Have faith in yourself and your team. Missing opportunities could be a detriment to your organisation. Create excitement by using your gut and have an open mind, you never know what opportunities may come your way. 

Assigning blame: Take responsibility for team failures, because they are your responsibility. It is your responsibility to find a solution. 

Inconsistency: Don’t confuse your team with misdirection. Use your ethics and vision to define the ultimate goal and stick to it.