Masterful Leadership Skills in Tough Times

Leaders are stressed more than ever. Downsizing and tight budgets are challenging leaders. In fact, doing more with less is the rallying call in corporations. To be a successful leaders in trying times, several key skills need to be mastered. Here are my five (5) tops leadership skills.

1. Listen. Truly listen to the messages that your employees communicate. Become an
active listener. Watch their body language as well as listen to the tone and words they use.

2. Communicate. In today's volatile business environment, it is important to keep your
employees informed. You will be amazed at their resilience.

3. Provide Feedback. We live in a "gotcha" environment. We look for what employees are
not doing. Praise in public and criticize in private. As stated by Ken Blancahard in
"Everyone's a Coach", "Feedback is the breakfast of champions, but it can only be given in
an environment where people don't feel they have to defend themselves."

4. Consistency. Be consistent with your employees. Do not send mixed messages. Walk
your talk and talk your walk.

5. Positive Demeanor. Remember, "you catch more bees with honey than venegar."
Focus on what can be done and air your frustrations in private.