So much has changed in this generation of corporate professionals, and the way we define leadership—work ethics, habits, and even leadership practices have drastically changed. Experts all agree that today’s business challenges are different, harder, and much more complex than they were decades ago. To meet these new demands and stay ahead, leaders must be able to shift gears and keep up with the trends-or else they will be left out.
The Challenges:
- Challenging employees- Employees are now more open, or confident (depending on how you look at things) to opposing or challenging their leader’s order.
- Technology- The gadgets and software available today can either help or ruin your business. The challenge is in learning to adapt and know which tools are worthy of your investment.
- Competition- It’s not enough to be good at one thing, so it’s important to keep learning new skills and improving the products/services you provide. Allot time for communication in leadership to equip your team with the knowledge and skills they will need to face the competition.
To thrive as a leader in the 21st century may take more than just the willingness to lead. There are certain practices, like effective communication in leadership to be developed and new skills to be learned.
Just how exactly have leaders changed today? Understanding this will help us define leadership and the way organizations operate to achieve their goals. Below are a few points to consider:
- Reflection
Successful leaders today take full responsibility for their mistakes and shortcomings. Admit to it, learn from your mistake, and move forward. Treat every failure as a chance to learn and be better. Be less over-confident, but recognize your own limitations and work to improve your skills and be better.
- Society
It’s not enough that you care for the company; consumers and employees will believe you more if you show genuine care for causes outside of your company. Be socially responsible, act to serve the larger good and not just yourself.
- Diversity
Encourage collaboration from everyone in your team, despite differences in race, culture, beliefs, and skills. You never know, but great ideas may come from the most unlikely source. Inspire each one to appreciate and embrace their differences by practicing communication in leadership.
- Ingenuity
Build a work culture of innovation and ingenuity. Instead of jumping to problem solving mode, successful leaders first ask, “Why?” and “Is there another way?”
- People
Promote work-life balance. Remember that people need time to recharge and be with the people they love. Make sure workers enjoy a balanced lifestyle.
As new leadership challenges arise, we are forced to step-up our game to keep up with the changes in the market, labor codes, and employee demands. So next time you feel overwhelmed with the responsibility your position brings, I suggest you reflect on the points we provided here.
© 2013 Incedo Group, LLC
