The Etiquette Savvy Boss: How to Break Through Poor Leadership - Part 2

 

Meet Tunde Alaba. He arrived at work early this morning and discovered that two of his employees had not reported for duty at the scheduled start time for the company employees. He reprimanded them. Mr. Alaba immediately contacted the human resources division to discipline these tardy workers. The human resources division addressed their tardiness and organized training to permanently break their habit. "We're not the ones who really need this training, it's the people who have called you here to train us," the employees said to the trainer during the training. "They always show up for work late. Only occasionally do we arrive late."

 

Being a poor role model for your staff makes it difficult to be a good, effective leader. Even the leaders who excel in their expertise can struggle with this, but you can make your job easier by picking up some fundamental business etiquette.

 

1. Arrive on time. Show up early, whether it's for work or a meeting. If someone is travelling with you, but you're running late, leave the person behind.  Your employees will respect you more and follow in your footprint if they see that you are trying to be a good leader and follow through with your commitments.

 

2) Don't interrupt your workers when they are trying to speak to you or give you a report. Let the person who is speaking finish their thought before continuing. This demonstrates your respect for their time and personal workplace space, just as you do for your own!

 

3) You don't dismiss a coworker because you don't get along with them personally. When you interact with your staff, ask questions whenever you can as this conveys your appreciation for their viewpoints and desire to get to know them better and solicit their input so they feel included in all workplace activities.

 

4) Be considerate in how you speak about your employees. Never spread rumours about the work or personal lives of your employees. While it may occasionally be tempting, refrain from acting in a hurtful manner as a leader by not disclosing information that employees have shared with you in confidence. Possess positive traits that your subordinates can really respect or admire.

In your leadership role, ensure controlled behaviour and efficient communication. We provide training in healthy communication that works. If you want to learn what constitutes negative and positive communication, consider taking this course.

A leader's qualities become an extension of the people they lead. Improve your leadership abilities. Be an exceptional leader.

To your continued business success!

Your friend and Coach,

Damilola Ogunremi.