Recently, I was asked to work with a team of about fifteen employees. The team’s request was for me to support them in optimizing the connection between team members and mutual trust.
Additionally, there was a desire to improve communication within the team.
After further questioning, it turned out that the team had little trust in their leader. There had been several disappointments in the past. And I often see this happen: crises in a team often have to do with the role of the leader. Improving leadership is essential for a positive development in optimizing team dynamics.
Learning from Bad Leadership
We often have examples of good leaders. Leaders with extraordinary qualities that inspire us.
But we also learn from bad leaders or have learned from bad leaders in the past. From these bad leaders, we learn how not to do it, what we don’t want, or what we would never do ourselves in that position. I previously wrote an article with tips for a good relationship with your manager.
At the same time, it’s a challenge for the team to function under a bad leader in a non-supportive culture.
There are many opportunities for bad leaders, but it’s always a question of whether they have the courage to develop into good and supportive leaders.
Two aspects are important for this:
- the willingness to change;
- the level of their “self-awareness”. That’s an EQ (emotional intelligence) skill. You can read more about the importance of EQ HERE.
11 Characteristics of Bad Leadership
To improve leadership, you first need to recognize which leadership traits are bad.
According to me, these are the most important characteristics of bad leadership:
- failure to recognize and acknowledge what’s really happening in their organization;
- always thinking they know better;
- making many promises but not keeping agreements;
- lack of transparency;
- teams are not held accountable, and usually, neither is the leader;
- failure to create trust, because you can’t rely on them;
- creating fear and harming people through negative language and actions;
- not being open to feedback, but blaming others;
- lack of a clear vision, objectives, and/or structure;
- frequently making excuses;
- not taking responsibility.
Perhaps you can add some more?
How to Become a Good Leader?
1st: Several employees from companies have purchased my first book to give as a gift to their leader. I think that’s a great idea!
Order the book “My Best Team Ever! In 7 Steps to Golden Leadership“. you can have it signed by me for your leader. Now also available as an e-book and audiobook.
2nd: Schedule an introductory appointment to explore how we can improve the quality of leadership in your organization.
3rd: On the website, you’ll find many more articles about leadership. Make the most of it.
