Great leadership isn’t about being in charge; it’s about making those around you better. As a leader, your success lies in the success of your team. A team that feels empowered and supported is more motivated, productive, and committed to their work.
Helping your team succeed starts with you—your actions, your mindset, and your approach.
As someone who has worked with teams in various industries, I’ve seen firsthand how small changes in leadership can make a big difference.
In this article, I’m sharing five practical steps that every leader can take today to start building a stronger, more successful team.
Let Them Take the Lead
One of the most important things a leader can do is trust their team. The best leaders give their team members the freedom to make decisions and lead initiatives. When people feel trusted, they work harder, think more creatively, and take more responsibility for their work.
Research by Gallup shows that employees who are given a sense of ownership in their work are more likely to be engaged and perform better. According to their study, teams that are empowered to make decisions have 21% higher productivity compared to those that aren’t.
As a leader, the key is to let go of the need for control. Instead of micromanaging, ask your team for their input and give them the space to lead on projects. This can be as simple as delegating the responsibility for a project and trusting them to make key decisions.
In my own experience, I’ve seen how giving ownership can lead to breakthroughs. One of my team members took the lead on a solar energy project that I had been overseeing. By empowering them to take full responsibility, they not only delivered results faster but also brought innovative ideas to the table that I hadn’t considered.
“Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.” – Simon Sinek
Listen Closely
Listening is one of the most powerful tools a leader has. When you listen to your team, you show them that their thoughts, ideas, and concerns are important. But it’s not just about hearing what they say—it’s about actively engaging with them and acting on their feedback.
Effective listening can also improve decision-making. According to a study by the Harvard Business Review, leaders who actively listen make better decisions and are more likely to earn their team’s trust. Listening is not passive; it’s a skill that can transform the way a team functions.
I’ve always believed in the power of listening—not just for problem-solving but for creating an environment where my team feels valued. One of the most effective leadership strategies I’ve used is regular one-on-one check-ins with my team members. During these sessions, I give them the space to share their challenges, ideas, and feedback. This not only helps me understand what’s going on but also gives them a voice in shaping our goals and strategies.
“The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn’t said.” – Peter Drucker
Celebrate the Little Wins
In our fast-paced work environments, it’s easy to get caught up in the big goals and overlook the small victories along the way. But celebrating these small wins is critical to building momentum and keeping your team motivated.
Research by the University of Warwick found that employees who feel appreciated are 12% more productive. Celebrating achievements—whether it’s a successful presentation, the completion of a milestone, or even overcoming a small challenge—creates a positive feedback loop that encourages further success.
I make it a point to acknowledge small wins regularly. Whether it’s a shoutout in a meeting, a simple thank-you email, or a quick mention on social media, recognizing the efforts of my team boosts morale and encourages them to keep pushing forward.
I remember a time when one of my colleagues stayed late to meet a tight deadline for a project. It was a small act of dedication, but it made a huge impact on the project’s success. I made sure to publicly recognize their hard work during our next team meeting. That small gesture not only motivated them but also inspired others on the team to go above and beyond.
“What gets recognized gets repeated.” – Unknown
Help Them Learn and Grow
Empowering your team isn’t just about giving them ownership—it’s also about giving them the tools they need to succeed. Helping your team members grow is one of the most effective ways to show you believe in them and their potential.
Providing learning opportunities, mentorship, and career development programs benefits everyone. According to LinkedIn’s 2018 Workforce Learning Report, 94% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their learning and development.
Growth opportunities can come in many forms. It could be formal training, cross-departmental projects, or simply encouraging a team member to take on a challenge outside their usual responsibilities.
In my experience, some of the most valuable moments of growth for my team have come from giving them the freedom to explore new roles or responsibilities. For example, I encouraged one of my team members to lead a project that was outside their usual scope of work. At first, they were hesitant, but after completing the project successfully, they gained new skills and confidence, which contributed to their long-term growth.
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” – Benjamin Franklin
Set the Example
A great leader doesn’t just tell their team what to do—they show them. Leading by example is the most powerful way to influence your team’s behavior. If you want your team to work hard, be honest, and stay positive, you must embody those traits yourself.
One study by Zenger & Folkman found that leaders who set a strong example in areas like integrity, transparency, and emotional intelligence are 40% more effective than those who don’t. Setting the right example creates a culture where these behaviors are expected, not just encouraged.
In my leadership journey, I’ve learned that my actions speak louder than my words. Whether it’s working late to meet a deadline, being transparent about challenges, or maintaining a positive attitude during tough times, I’ve always tried to lead with integrity and authenticity. My team knows they can count on me to be consistent, and that consistency builds trust.
“Leadership is not about being the best. It’s about making everyone else better.” – Unknown
Helping Your Team Succeed Starts with You
Great leadership isn’t about making huge changes or implementing complicated strategies. It’s about taking small, consistent actions that build trust, encourage growth, and help your team thrive.
As a leader, it’s your responsibility to create an environment where your team feels empowered to take charge, share their ideas, and succeed. By giving them ownership, listening closely, celebrating their progress, supporting their growth, and setting the right example, you can lead your team to new heights.
Remember, leadership is a journey, not a destination. Each day is an opportunity to make a positive impact. Which of these steps will you put into action today? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you.
