The 4 Mistakes Leaders Make in Managing People

When we start our careers, whether in a company, public sector role or a charity, what skills do we think will be most important moving forward?  In our experience, not many people put enough thought, time and effort into developing their leadership skills. And yet, for many who want to climb that career ladder this will become critical to their success (or lack thereof).

So often, leadership is a skill which we tend to learn along the way, or one that we hope to acquire naturally over time and through experience – informally, without much officially training or education. (Unless you’re lucky enough to already be a client of ours!)

Over the years, we’ve come to notice that there are 4 common mistakes that leaders seem to make when it comes to managing people:

1. Not Investing in Your People

We’ve sort of referenced this already in the introduction, but just because you as Leader gained your skills through ‘trial & error’ through your career does NOT mean the rest of your team has to.  Invest in the development of your team is key.  Because without continuous growth opportunities, employees can feel undervalued and stagnate, ultimately affecting the whole team’s performance.

2. Thinking You Always Know Best, or Not Listening

As a leader, it’s easy to assume that your experience means you always have the right answers. But the best leaders understand the value of collaboration and listening to their team’s insights and ideas.

3. Not Managing Difficult Behaviours

We all know burying our head in the sand usually a nicer short-term solution, but it’s no recipe for positive teamwork in the medium term. Ignoring issues will only come back to bite you, creating a toxic environment and undermining team morale.

4. Not Realising the Difference between EARNED and OWED respect

Leaders who assume respect is automatically given due to their position are starting on the wrong foot. True respect is earned, through consistent actions, building trust, and demonstrating understanding. You can’t just rely on the job title!

Let us know what you think—what mistakes have you noticed leaders making in your organisation?

Or if you’d ever like some support in your own, or your team’s leadership skills, then get in touch or arrange one of our FREE 1 Hour Coaching Sessions (you can see our diary by clicking here).