Some common signs of poor construction leadership are lack of integrity and accountability, inadequate communication skills, and inability to adapt to change. All of these traits often lead to high employee turnover rates because they lead to substandard working conditions. But, a common quality shared by many great leaders is that they know how to have a positive influence on those around them. Here’s a checklist of things that leaders should be doing more of to promote a positive work environment.
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Find ways to catch employees when they’re doing something right!
Use positive reinforcement instead of reprimanding employees all of the time. Great leaders are willing to empower those working for them and trust their abilities to make important decisions that can benefit the company.
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Have a positive attitude yourself.
An important aspect of leadership is to lead by example. So, it’s essential that you be a role model for your employees. Extraordinary construction leadership have enthusiasm for the industry that becomes contagious among their employees. Leaders who are passionate and set realistic expectations for their team are often the ones who are revered the most; and their retention rates usually reflect that.
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Do what you say you’re going to do.
Leaders should always do what’s right, even if that isn’t the most popular path. Good leaders also remain confident and decisive when they have to make those judgement calls. If something doesn’t go right on a project, then they should hold themselves accountable first.
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Be willing to do yourself what you ask of others.
Great leaders promote a “let’s-work-together” environment. Roll up your sleeves and pitch in because strong leaders aren’t afraid to spend extra time working alongside their team members on a project. Powerful leaders often guide others to reach their goals by working beside them along the way. But, there’s also a fine line between micromanaging employees and providing them with guidance and inspiration.
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Help others be successful by standing up for them.
Leaders are able to add value to others by helping them achieve their professional goals. They show them what they need to do by providing valuable mentorship. Avoid sabotaging others because the more support that you give to others, the more you will receive in return. Also, help employees with skills that they’re lacking. Give them the tools they need to be productive.
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Listen to and acknowledge employee concerns.
Great leaders have superior communication skills that not only motivate their teams, but also effectively instruct the people they are in charge of. Construction projects have so many different moving parts, so leaders need to have effective communication to maintain ongoing collaboration with everyone involved.
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Share and give credit where it’s due.
Some leaders fall into a routine of always taking the credit when they can easily boost the morale of their team by sharing it more often. Exceptional leaders want everybody to win. Also, always give your time for feedback.
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