Common mistakes that need to be avoided as a leader

Common mistakes that need to be avoided as a leader

Perfectionism can be developed over a period by regular practicing. Nobody is born perfect. Everyone makes mistakes. It is not a flaw; in fact, it is the key element of learning. You learn something new every time you make a mistake. It purely depends upon the individual on how they perceive it and move ahead in life. However, there are a few mistakes which need to be avoided in today’s dynamic business environment.

Hesitation to accept change: Fear of change and uncertainty is enrooted amongst every individual. So far, 2020 has been the most unpredictable year of the century. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and nation-wide lockdown, many things have changed in the business operations. It has enforced every business and professionals to change their working patterns, go digital and change their entire business model to adapt to the new normal. A leader must have a dynamic approach and motivate the team to build confidence during the transition.

Avoiding introspection and retrospection: A leader has a lot of responsibilities and a list of tasks on their plate which makes it difficult to find time to think and get a reflection of the newer thoughts and ideas on the work. But it is important to free up the schedule and take some time to introspect and retrospect the existing business problems, solving conflicts, improving productivity, correcting mistakes irrespective of your own or team’s mistakes. This will help in running the business in a much more effective and fruitful way.

Using email/text messages for urgent tasks: A lot of leaders and managers make this mistake without even realizing it. Though important things come up with last minute deadlines, it is essential to get on a call with the concerned team member. It is necessary to make sure that the other person knows about the task and understands it completely so that they can deliver the same on time without any hassle. Most of the time employees get busy on other tasks which leads to checking the messages late and panic situations at the last moment. Calling during these times is always advisable.

Reluctance in accepting mistakes: Every individual tends to make mistakes along the way while trying something new. But as mentioned previously, making mistakes is not a flaw, it is the key element of learning. A leader needs to be humble and accept mistakes for bringing a change. It showcases compassion towards the team and earns their respect gradually. It is rightly believed that a mistake is a mistake when you do not learn anything from it.

“Be humble to see your mistakes, courageous to admit them, and wise enough to correct them” -Amine Ayad

These are some of the mistakes that you can easily avoid. Share your thoughts regarding other mistakes a leader should be wary of.

By Vrutika Dawda, Director, IdeateLabs