The fourth in my series on keys to successful leadership focuses on Morale & Motivation.
When leaders fail to inspire and empower their teams, employees become disheartened and lacking in motivation.
So, what leadership style makes for an inspiring leader?
- Well, they have this amazing ability to motivate employees by painting a clear picture of the vision and purpose of the organisation. They efficiently communicate goals and objectives, making sure everyone knows their part.
As Simon Sinek reminds us in his book “Start with Why” leaders who communicate their “why” – the purpose and belief behind their actions – can inspire others to achieve remarkable results. When employees have a sense of purpose, it’s like rocket fuel for their motivation and engagement.
- They’re emotionally intelligent. This means they show empathy and understanding towards their employees’ and their needs. They do this by actively listening, by valuing input even when they don’t agree with what’s being proposed.
- They illustrate trust which then creates a culture of trust, collaboration, and open communication.
- Having laid this foundation, they create a positive work culture and environment. They establish an atmosphere where employees feel valued and recognised for their hard work. By celebrating achievements and fostering a culture of appreciation, they create a sense of togetherness and a shared purpose.
The alternative is disastrous. The consequence of uninspiring leadership is low morale and motivation which results in demoralised teams. This results in decreased engagement and productivity, affecting both individuals and the organisation. Uninspiring leaders can cause high turnover and absenteeism, disrupting team dynamics and increasing costs.
In short, inspiring leadership plays a critical role in motivating and empowering employees. Leaders who possess the qualities of inspiration can enhance team morale and create a positive work culture.
These Leaders are often transformational leaders. Leaders who cannot inspire lead to reduced engagement, productivity, and increased turnover and absenteeism.
Inspiring leadership is essential for a successful organisation. What do you think is the biggest cause of low morale in an organisation?
