How Do You Adapt Your Leadership Style to Different Team Members?
Leadership is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, and adapting to the unique needs of team members is crucial for success. We’ve gathered insights from CEOs and founders, among others, to share their experiences. From practicing empathy and flexibility in leadership to ensuring personalized leadership for team success, dive into these five tailored leadership strategies.
- Empathy and Flexibility in Leadership
- Facilitating Creative Team Member Growth
- Adapting Leadership to Maximize Potential
- Gamification and Flexibility in Management
- Personalized Leadership for Team Success
Empathy and Flexibility in Leadership
I have worked in the beauty industry for the last sixteen years and have built a beauty empire from scratch. My journey began with my love of beauty and my mission to empower women with self-expression.
When it comes to leadership, I’m a firm believer in a one-on-one approach. For example, I remember seeing one of our amazing stylists struggle with time management. Rather than scolding her, I listened to her work process and learned she was a visual learner.
I helped her learn how to use visual planning tools, which improved her productivity and job satisfaction immensely. This experience helped me understand that great leadership requires empathy and flexibility.
Understanding and responding to each person’s unique needs can create a supportive work culture that fosters growth and productivity. Perfect Locks is a product of this approach.
Priyanka Swamy
CEO, Perfect Locks
Facilitating Creative Team Member Growth
At Schmicko, each team member’s personal and professional development is of utmost importance to me. There was this one instance where we had an exceptionally creative team member who was underperforming in their current role because it was too structured and routine for their creative flair. I initiated a discussion to explore their career aspirations and discovered their deep interest in graphic design.
With this insight, I facilitated a transition for them to contribute to our marketing campaigns. This shift not only allowed them to thrive professionally by leveraging their creativity but also greatly enhanced the quality and originality of our marketing materials, improving our brand’s visibility and engagement.
David Bui
Director & Business Specialist – Automotive & Automations, Schmicko
Adapting Leadership to Maximize Potential
At Kualitee, I’ve customized my leadership style to match our team members’ needs. For one team member who thrived on independence, I provided broader autonomy with clear goals, allowing them to navigate their path to success. I established weekly check-ins and detailed project roadmaps for others who benefited from regular feedback.
This personalized approach has significantly boosted performance and satisfaction, underscoring the importance of adaptability and understanding in leadership to maximize each team member’s potential.
Khurram Mir
Founder and Chief Marketing Officer, Kualitee
Gamification and Flexibility in Management
Sure, as an e-commerce entrepreneur, I discovered that adapting my leadership style to each member requires thinking outside the box. Instead of just sticking to the usual ways, I turned work into a bit of a game. What I have done is add game-like elements to how we work, which also suits everyone’s personality and motivations.
I have a team member, Sarah, who enjoys competition and recognition. So, for her, I have introduced a gamified system where completing tasks efficiently, hitting sales targets, or suggesting innovative ideas earns points. Her points are displayed on a leaderboard, and top performers like Sarah receive public recognition and rewards for their accomplishments. This taps into Sarah’s competitive nature and provides her with the incentive to excel in her work.
On the other hand, Dhruv, another team member, is an introvert and values personal growth and self-development. For Dhruv, I have created a mentorship program within the team where he can learn more from the experienced members who can guide and support him. Also, I understand the importance of flexibility in leadership, especially when it comes to a remote work environment. I let people choose when they work and where they work from. This way, they can handle their work in a way that fits them best and makes them happier and more productive.
Overall, by incorporating elements of gamification, mentorship, and flexibility into my leadership approach, I can effectively cater to the diverse needs and motivations of individual team members.
Nikhil Soni
Founder, The Tribe Kids
Personalized Leadership for Team Success
Recognizing the unique needs of team members, I implemented a tailored leadership approach during a critical project. For a team member who thrived on autonomy, I provided clear project goals and milestones, allowing them to take ownership.
Conversely, for a team member who sought guidance, I scheduled regular check-ins, offering mentorship and clarifying expectations. By understanding and adapting to each individual’s working style, we not only achieved project success but also strengthened the team’s cohesion. This personalized leadership approach fostered a sense of trust and understanding, contributing to improved job satisfaction and overall team performance.
Viraj Lele
Industrial Engineer, DHL Supply Chain
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