5 minute read
Straight To The Top: Unleash Your Leadership Game
By Charli Nekrep - Iconic Coaching
This one is for the managers, the coordinators, the team leaders… really, it’s for anyone who is a boss babe at heart!
Firstly, let’s be real, leadership isn’t for the faint-hearted! I can just hear all the boss babes screaming *preach sista!*. Leadership is for those who are ready to step up, embrace challenges, and push boundaries. And you know what?! I got you! Here are my top tips that’ll have you leading like the fierce, unstoppable powerhouse that you are!
Walk it like you talk it
We’ve all heard the phrase “lead by example,” right?! It’s now time to crank that up. Real leaders don’t just talk the talk - they walk the damn walk. Whether it’s how you handle a tough conversation with a client or handle constructive criticism given to you, your team is watching. People are inspired by what they see, not just what they’re told. Show them exactly how to remain in your power – by staying cool, calm and composed.
Actions will always speak louder than words. So, if you want your team to respect and listen to you, then you need to respect and listen to them, too. And, when I say respect and listen, I don’t mean just nodding along or giving a half-hearted “uh-huh.” I mean genuinely hearing them out, valuing their input, and showing them that their ideas and concerns matter. It’s about creating a space where every voice is heard, and in turn, you will get the same respect from your team. Easy peasy, right?!
Trust: the real boss move
Now, without trust, there’s no team. Trust isn’t just a fancy word to throw around - it’s the backbone of any successful team. And this, my friend, is your ultimate power move. When your team trusts you, they become more open and honest. But hold up - in the words of Missy Elliott, let’s put that thang down, flip it, and reverse it: when you trust your team, you’re setting them up to shine!
So, it’s time to ditch the micromanaging bs and start building real trust with your crew. Be transparent, keep your promises, and most importantly, let your tribe know you’ve got their back.
Empower, don’t overpower
If you’re still clinging to an outdated hierarchical leadership structure, then you, my sweet but delusional babe, are going to fall behind, be constantly stressed, and wonder why your team is a flat-out mess (to put it nicely).
Leadership isn’t about controlling every move your team makes; it’s about giving them the tools, the freedom, and the confidence to make magic happen. When your tribe feels empowered, they’ll let their freak flags fly without fear of judgment. They’ll be innovative, take risks, and push boundaries. And when they do, your entire team levels up. So show up, show out, and be the best damn cheerleader you can be for your team. You won’t regret it!
Bend, don’t break
When something goes wrong in your world, just yell ‘plot twist’ and move on.
There’s nothing truer than this statement— especially when it comes to leadership. The ability to adapt is a must-have leadership skill. Flexibility is a superpower; it’s your ability to roll with the punches, switch gears, and turn challenges into opportunities. I’m not saying to go with every flow; I’m saying have the guts to change course when it’s needed.
Leaders who thrive aren’t the ones who shy away from change; they’re the ones who embrace it with open arms and a fierce attitude. It’s about being bold enough to say, “alright, time to switch it up,” and leading your team with confidence when the unexpected hits. When you’re adaptable, you show your team that setbacks are just setups for comebacks.
So, when life throws you a curve, don’t trip - switch it up, flex that hustle, and keep strutting like the boss babe that you are! Ain’t nobody got time for setbacks when you’re on your grind!
Stand with integrity
You can have all the charisma in the world, but if you don’t have integrity, it all falls flat. Leading with integrity is the real game changer here. Your crew needs to know that you stand for something, act with honesty, and uphold your values no matter what!
When your actions are driven by integrity, you inspire loyalty, respect, and, most of all, authenticity. Your commitment to doing the right thing, even when it’s tough, encourages others to be true to themselves and to each other.
And, nothin’ but facts - it’s not just about what you do when everyone’s watching; it’s about the decisions you make when no one’s around. True integrity is tested in those quiet moments when the spotlight isn’t shining on you. It’s easy to play the part when eyes are on you, but real leadership is about making the right choices, even when no one is around. The way you conduct yourself in private reflects your true values and sets the tone for your entire team.
When your decisions begin with integrity, you create a culture where doing the right thing becomes the norm. Your team will notice, and they’ll follow your lead. They’ll feel empowered to make choices that align with those same values, fostering a sense of trust and respect that binds everyone together.
Remember, leadership isn’t just a title—it’s a way of life, babe! So, if you’re done playing it safe and ready to step into your full power as an iconic leader, then you need to join our Leaders Unleashed program!. We’re here to turn managers and team leaders into fearless, game-changing visionaries who aren’t afraid to break the rules. Until next time, stay bold, stay unleashed, and always stay iconic!
www.iconiccoaching.com.au @charli_iconiccoachingau