Sustainable leadership: get the most from your team without completely suffocating it

Tips and advice on management and leadership often neglect one important element: sustainability. It is indeed very important to get maximum performance out of your team, to inspire them, motivate them to do their best, and serve as a role model to them. However, it is equally important to set up the whole system in such a way that it is sustainable in the long run, so neither employees nor manager will burn out. This article describes what an effective yet sustainable leadership style looks like, one that will enable you to exploit the full potential of your team, but without encountering burnouts, demotivation or employee resignations.

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Listen to your subordinates

As Forbes states, every manager can learn a lot from their subordinates. Their initiatives may offer a unique point of view on a given issue. But not every manager listens to their employees, which is wrong.

Do not forget about breaks

Working without any breaks is ultimately counterproductive. You should take a few minutes' break at least every hour. Your work will then be more effective, concentrated and creative. Convey this same idea to your subordinates and encourage them also to take regular breaks.

Do not be afraid to delegate work

Delegation of work is key to the success of any team. Do not fall under the impression that you yourself do everything best; set up a system of work delegation that will increase the capacity of the whole team and allow you, the manager, more time for strategic planning.

Use modern technologies

 Too little investment in new technologies and software can eventually have a strong negative impact on the results of the team as a whole. Do not lag behind current developments, take an interest in automation tools and do not use obsolete technology.

 

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Article source Forbes.com - prestigious American business magazine and website
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