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Brett Farmiloe, CEO at Terkel, recently shared a list of actions to become a better leader. Among his suggestions, three stood out as particularly impactful: delegating authority instead of tasks, being a mentor instead of a manager, and hiring colleagues instead of employees. Implementing these strategies can significantly boost motivation and engagement among your team members.

1.  Delegate Authority, Not Just Tasks

Empower Through Trust

When you delegate authority rather than just tasks, you demonstrate trust in your team members. This approach empowers them to make decisions and develop their leadership skills. Here’s how you can implement this strategy:

• Clearly Define Goals: Instead of assigning specific tasks, outline the desired outcomes. Let your team members figure out the best way to achieve these goals.
• Encourage Decision-Making: Give team members the autonomy to make decisions related to their tasks. Provide guidance when needed, but avoid micromanaging.
• Support and Monitor: While giving authority, remain available for support. Regularly check in to see how things are progressing and offer assistance if required.
• Celebrate Successes: Recognize and celebrate when team members successfully handle their responsibilities. This reinforces their confidence and encourages further growth.

2. Be a Mentor, Not Just a Manager

Foster Growth and Learning

As a mentor, you focus on helping your team members learn and expand their skill sets. This means recognizing that mistakes will happen and using them as learning opportunities. Here’s how you can adopt a mentorship approach:

• Offer Constructive Feedback: Provide feedback that helps team members improve. Focus on what they did well and where they can grow.
• Encourage Skill Development: Identify areas where team members can develop new skills and provide opportunities for training and growth.
• Be Approachable: Create an environment where team members feel comfortable coming to you with questions or concerns.
• Guide Through Mistakes: When mistakes occur, help team members understand what went wrong and how to avoid similar issues in the future.
• Set Development Goals: Work with team members to set personal and professional development goals, and support them in achieving these objectives.
  

3.  Hire Colleagues, Not Just Employees

Create a Collaborative Culture

Treating those who report to you as colleagues rather than subordinates can be incredibly powerful. By viewing and introducing them as equals, you foster a sense of collaboration and respect. Here’s how you can implement this strategy:

• Promote Inclusivity: Encourage team members to share ideas and opinions, regardless of their position in the hierarchy.
• Use Collaborative Language: When introducing team members, use language that emphasizes partnership. For example, say "this is Joe, we work together" instead of "this is Joe, he works for me."
• Build Relationships: Take time to get to know your team members personally. Understand their strengths, interests, and aspirations.
• Acknowledge Contributions: Regularly recognize and appreciate the contributions of your team members, making them feel valued and respected.
• Foster Team Bonding: Create opportunities for team-building activities that help strengthen relationships and build trust among team members.