How to build an effective leadership team
Building an effective leadership team increases the potential of companies because common sense is practiced, creativity is nourished, responsibility is expected and strong work ethics are adhered to. Effective leadership directs group efforts to a common good, thereby reinforcing individual team members, acknowledging and appreciating their contributions, rewarding their loyalty and responding to their insights. Time, patience and openness are necessary to build an effective leadership team.
Defining leadership
While it is easy to dismiss leadership, qualifying figures of authority as leaders without determining definitive characteristics that set leaders apart from superiors can become extremely short-sighted, especially when attempting to build an effective leadership team. Clearly not all bosses are leaders, and it can be said, without reservation, that some leaders do not find opportunities to express their leadership abilities adequately.
Several studies on the unique traits of leaders indicate that multiple variables affect one's ability to become a leader. Common traits of true leaders are defined with charming words that lend themselves to assertiveness and promote a positive image. The following words are often used when describing leadership qualities:
- Humility
- Loyalty
- Unbiased
- Vision-oriented
- Respectful
- Assertive
- Responsible
- Focused
- Responsive
- Attentive
- Strong
While most people are capable of exercising these individual traits throughout their lives, true leaders seem to live the meaning of these words on a daily basis. Their personal code of ethics is not separated or categorized; instead, it easily overlaps into every aspect of their lives.
Vince Lombardi, one of the NFL's highly acknowledged football coaches, is recognized for his popular quote, "Leaders are made; they are not born. They are made by hard effort, which is the price which all of us must pay to achieve any goal that is worthwhile." It follows that building an effective leadership team is not about sponsoring a personality contest, but rather matching people with cohesive personalities together, administering to their leadership qualities, and providing ample opportunity for them to exercise those traits on a regular basis.
Leadership team management
Key variables need to be considered when building a leadership team. Specific predetermined criteria should be identified. Among these are predictable results, based on individual personality differences of those being assembled into the team. Cause and effect relationships must be evaluated. The Big Five, a set of distinctive leadership personality traits, have been identified as predominant leadership factors:
- Extroversion
- Agreeableness
- Conscientiousness
- Neuroticism
- Openness to experience
Naturally, these traits lend themselves to the possibility of conflict within the team, particularly since a few of them appear to be contradictory. Balance must be moderated, and a sense of individual prudence should be exercised as necessary.
Peak performance is achieved when leadership team members reinforce one another's strengths and help conquer individual weaknesses. The saying "opposites attract" can be readily applied to building a team of leaders. However, conflict management strategies should be employed to minimize personality clashes that may be detrimental to the team, thereby affecting those they lead.
Effective team leadership is achieved when team members communicate clearly with each other. One of their main goals is to achieve cohesiveness within the team, which will be reflected to their followers. This minimizes the impact of followers pitting one leader against another, thereby furthering personal agendas that may or may not be appropriate. Clear communication is important for the team itself. It is also necessary to develop overall consistency throughout the company, thereby minimizing the potential for misunderstandings that lead to error and frustration.
