By Bryan Nadeau, PCC. There is nothing static about leading others. It requires ongoing input and learning. When was the last time you stepped back and got feedback on how you are showing up as a leader? If it has been more than 6 months, you are overdue for a tune-up.
Use these tips to continually improve your leadership skills.
Do your own 360 review
Reach out to direct reports, peers, and managers to get their feedback on how you are doing. It doesn’t have to be in-depth. Ask three questions to keep it short for the people you are asking and phrase it in a way that makes them feel comfortable with providing you honest feedback for your continued growth.
Stay objective
Step back and view the feedback in a neutral manner to see where you can make adjustments based on that input, with the focus on the opportunity to grow. We all have blinders on to some extent, and this information allows you to see around those blinders.
Read books on leadership
Do this at least once a quarter to stay up on current trends and review those that are foundational to a leader’s success. I am currently reading The Good Ancestor – A Radical Prescription for Long-Term Thinking, by Roman Krznaric.
Schedule a few sessions with your Executive Coach
Use these sessions to review and get a different perspective on your feedback to continue your growth as a leader. It’s always helpful to get a third party’s view of what might be going on.
We all get busy, and it is difficult to make time for these types of exercises. Build this into your routine at least once a quarter. It is critical to your ability to lead and inspire others to be on a continuous learning journey. They will appreciate your effort and continue to deliver in ways that will surprise you.
For more about 360 degree leadership assessments, and developing your leadership skills, schedule a consultation with Bryan.