LESS BOSSING, MORE LEADERSHIP
Drive by Friday
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Drive by Friday –
We’ve all worked with different types of leaders throughout our careers. Some inspire us, encourage us, and bring out the best in us. Others remind us just how much a leader’s behaviour can influence our experience at work.
What really makes a great team leader?
Is it experience, technical knowledge or the ability to get results? Of course, these things matter. But I believe great leadership goes far beyond what someone knows or what their job title says. It’s about who they are, how they treat people and the environment they create around them.
It's not about ruling with an iron fist.
Great leaders don't need to be the loudest person in the room, micromanage every decision or lead through fear and authority. They understand that respect is earnt, trust is built and people perform at their best when they feel supported, valued, and empowered.
The leaders we remember positively are often those who make us feel comfortable being ourselves, encourage us to share ideas, listen without jumping to conclusions and give us the confidence to grow.
So, what are the traits of a great leader?
They're approachable and personable. They make time for their people, welcome questions and create an environment where people feel comfortable speaking openly.
They're good listeners, not quick judges. They seek to understand before forming an opinion. They recognise that everyone has different strengths, perspectives, and challenges, and that mistakes are opportunities to learn.
They bring out the best in others. Rather than needing to have all the answers, they mentor, encourage, and empower their team. They recognise potential, celebrate achievements, and give people opportunities to develop.
They're fair and consistent. They treat people with respect, regardless of personality or whether someone always agrees with them. They address issues constructively rather than making things personal.
They're confident without being controlling. They set clear expectations, provide direction, and hold people accountable, while trusting their team to take ownership of their work.
They lead by example. They demonstrate the behaviours they expect from others, communicate honestly, take responsibility for their decisions and are willing to acknowledge when they get things wrong.
Leadership is in the little things.
It's in the way we respond when someone makes a mistake. It's whether we take the time to listen when a team member has a concern. It's how we deliver feedback, recognise effort, handle pressure, and treat people when things don't go to plan.
These everyday moments shape our workplace culture far more than a job title ever could. And let's be clear: being approachable doesn't mean avoiding difficult conversations, and being understanding doesn't mean lowering standards. Great leaders can be supportive while still setting boundaries, addressing performance issues and making tough decisions. The difference is in how they do it.
You can be firm without being intimidating, confident without being arrogant, and a leader without needing to control everything.
A little food for thought this Friday…
Leadership isn't simply about managing a team or achieving business outcomes. It's about creating an environment where people feel respected, motivated, and confident enough to do their best work.
So, here's a question worth asking ourselves:
If you asked the people you lead to describe you in three words, what would they say … and would those be the words you hoped to hear?
Great leadership isn't measured only by what we achieve ourselves, but by what we help others achieve.
TIME FOR THE WEEKEND – ENJOY! 😊
Be the leader you would want to work for.
Simpli-U - putting the ‘U’ into Leadership.
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Lorraine Singer
Director & Consultant – Simpli-U
Recruitment Solutions for the Novated Leasing, Salary Packaging & Automotive sectors
Australia-wide | Solutions all about ‘U’