In coaching conversations, a common theme emerges: leaders often underestimate the power of empowering those around them. These discussions might start with topics like team effectiveness or morale but often lead to empowerment. It’s interesting that this idea surfaces from unasked questions. People rarely ask, “How do I empower my team?”—though perhaps they should.
Empowerment is based on the belief that people have the ability and desire to take on more responsibility. Leadership involves guiding individuals from where they are to where they have not been. So, it’s crucial to ask: Does my approach empower or discourage?
I believe that the decision to empower others is what differentiates a good leader from a great one. Here are some questions to help determine where you stand on this journey.
Signs of Empowering Leadership
Let’s flip the script and focus on what it means to be an empowering leader. Here are six signs that you might be on the right track:
1. You Empower Others to Find Solutions
- Question: Do you encourage team members to find their own answers?
- Action: Ask yourself, “Who is more informed about this than I am?” and empower them to lead the solution.
2. You Engage in Active Listening and Value Input
- Question: Are you genuinely open to feedback and ideas from your team?
- Action: Show your team that you value their input by implementing their suggestions and acknowledging their contributions.
3. You Foster a Culture of Open Dialogue
- Question: Do team members feel comfortable expressing differing opinions?
- Action: Build trust by creating a safe space for open discussion and encouraging diverse perspectives.
4. You Encourage Two-Way Communication
- Question: Do you create opportunities for team members to share their expertise?
- Action: Implement strategies that promote active participation and dialogue in meetings.
5. You Develop Team Autonomy
- Question: Do you empower your team to excel independently?
- Action: Teach your team the skills needed to thrive in self-managed situations, fostering trust and flexibility.
6. You Value and Trust Team Expertise
- Question: Do you trust your team to provide valuable insights and solutions?
- Action: Demonstrate trust by giving them autonomy and acknowledging their expertise.
Conclusion: Empowering Leadership for Success
Reflect on your answers to these questions. If you’re already practicing these empowering behaviors, you’re on the right path. Empowering others not only enhances team effectiveness and morale but also elevates your leadership abilities. By acknowledging and addressing areas for improvement, you can create an environment where everyone feels valued and trusted—key to both team and individual success.
