Becoming a new leader is a journey filled with unique challenges and learning opportunities. For many, this might be their first time leading a team, and knowing what to do and what to avoid can be daunting. There are various leadership styles and approaches to explore, but fundamentally, it’s essential to understand your team and the organization.

I’m grateful for my early exposure to leadership during my university years through Mercy Corps Indonesia’s leadership program. This experience shaped my foundational leadership skills, including teamwork, decision-making, and critical thinking. However, a seven-day intensive training couldn’t cover everything necessary for effective leadership. Here are some of the things I wish I knew earlier (so I could make sure to implement the good ones and avoid the bad approaches):

Listen More, Listen Proactively

When I first started leading a community, my enthusiasm drove numerous programs and activities despite many limitations. Initially, I thought ‘listening to others’ meant considering their ideas. However, true listening encompasses more—facial expressions, body language, and subtle refusals. I implemented their ideas into real programs but didn’t consider the importance of understanding my team’s motivations and challenges. Listening helps us make better decisions by providing a deeper understanding of the context.

Team’s Result is Also Reflection of My Work

The results achieved by a team are a reflection of both the team and the leader. Leadership isn’t just about business outcomes but also the processes, coaching, and overall team development. I used to think that success from a team member’s idea was solely theirs and failures were due to team incompetence. Both successes and failures should be seen as shared responsibilities and reflections of my leadership.

Recognition and Shout Out

Naturally, I’m not someone who easily gives compliments. I tend to focus on criticism, both giving and receiving it. However, I remember receiving some sincere recognitions at work and they motivated me. Those experiences led me to implement this with my team. I observed growth, confidence, and improvement in my team, sometimes in small steps, other times significantly boosting work motivation.

There Are Benefits in Being Micromanaging

Initially, I believed a good leader must be democratic, avoiding micromanagement. However, I learned that some team members thrive under direct guidance. Micromanaging, though tiring, is essential for setting standards, ensuring processes, and building habits. While it’s not my preferred style, I’ve found that it helps in establishing a strong team culture.

I have been implementing these now and have witnessed firsthand the growth and improvement in my team. I’ve seen team members who were once annoyed and demotivated transform through small but significant changes. Sometimes, people just want to be heard without seeking immediate solutions. Sometimes, small appreciations and shout-outs can make them feel valued and important. Sometimes, they need the leader to apologize or acknowledge changing circumstances. Leaders don’t need to be the smartest in the room, sometimes we just need to say: “Oh I did not know that, thank you for sharing, it’s very helpful!”. Simple validations of their correctness can boost their morale. All of this can challenge our personal egos, but this is where consistent practice becomes essential.

Leadership is a continuous learning process that involves understanding your team, adapting to change, and fostering a positive work environment. By embracing these principles, new leaders can navigate their roles more effectively and drive their teams toward success. Remember, leadership is not about being ‘the boss’ or about the authority, it’s also not just about being able to make decisions or give solutions, but it’s also about guiding others, growing and evolving with them.