Ways to Lead by Example

Managers and executives play a vital role in setting the tone of your workplace. Holding a position where you’ve been entrusted to lead others means you hold the responsibility of inspiring and motivating your team to perform at their highest capabilities in order to achieve your organization’s goals.

As a leader, your actions influence the behavior and attitudes of other people which is why it is critical to always lead by example. To lead by example means you model the behavior you want to see in your team members and serve as an excellent role model for other employees to emulate. Doing so fosters higher levels of team engagement, increases trust and connection amongst coworkers and has an overall positive impact on morale. Everything you do as a leader could potentially be an example for your team – so remember, it all starts with you. Be the change you want to see in your team and try out these few tips to lead by example and inspire others.

1. Get involved.

A good leader leads from the front, not the sidelines. As a leader, you have many responsibilities but it’s important you work alongside your team and stay constantly involved in the actual work. Having an in-depth understanding of your trade and business from all positions and showing others that you’re not above doing any tasks and responsibilities yourself, demonstrates you can walk the walk and not just talk the talk. Staying actively involved in your team’s initiatives establishes greater trust and shows them that you value their work and understand their contribution.

2. Stay transparent.

Mistakes are an inevitable and are going to happen. When your employees feel they can’t be upfront and honest with you when something goes wrong, it tends to lead to even greater problems down the road. Always be open with your team and share your wins and losses by staying transparent.  Communicate results, both positive and negative, and never forget that failure is an opportunity to learn and grow.

3. Be flexible.

We unfortunately can’t plan for everything and at times, priorities will get rearranged, timelines will shift and goals will be missed. Good leaders make room for flexibility and show others how to roll with the punches. Lead by example when plans change by staying flexible and supporting your employees when there is a roadblock in the way. This will make your team more resilient in the long-term.

4. Let your team fly.

Great leaders set standards and uphold accountability in the workplace and they do so without micro-managing. As a leader, when you try to control every little thing your team does, it tends to lead to frustration, digression and poor performance. Your team won’t always do things exactly your way and that’s okay. Communicate your mission, values, and goals and then step back and let your team try new ways of doing things. Allow your team to innovate and encourage them to take risks to show you trust them to get their best work done. Instead of telling your team what you want them to do, set this example and model the work ethic you want to see.