Increase Your Impact: Leader Mindset vs. Supervisor Mindset
Companies today are full of “managers” who were promoted based on their individual performance in a role and not on their experience as a team leader. If this sounds like your journey, you may be struggling to be the guide your team desperately needs. How can you cultivate that leader mindset and develop the necessary skills to lead effectively?
From “Me” to “We”
A supervisor mindset can be transactional. The focus is on individual task completion. A leader mindset, however, takes a broader view. It’s about building a team that works together towards a shared vision that is communicated well and understood by all. Leaders ask, “How can we achieve this goal collectively?” and then empower their team members by fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Future Focused
Supervisors are great at keeping things running smoothly today, however, leaders tend to have an eye on the future. They anticipate challenges, embrace change and constantly seek to improve process efficiencies. They research growth opportunities for each team member and invest in their development.
Leaders Seek to Inspire
Instead of just providing feedback, leaders ignite a fire. They create a culture where people are excited to contribute their best. They celebrate successes, big and small, recognizing individual and team achievements. They also foster a safe environment for everyone to hold each other accountable to reach shared goals.
Leaders Don’t Have All the Answers
While supervisors may see themselves as authority figures with all the answers, leaders embrace a growth mindset. They understand learning is a continuous process. They invite feedback, encourage new ideas and are open to learning from their team members. True leaders know that the development and success of their team is often the best indicator of their strength in their role.
Ready to Lead?
Here are some action items to get started:
Communicate the vision for the team: Clearly outline specific, measurable goals and why they matter
Empower your team: Delegate tasks, provide autonomy and offer support
Consider hiring a coach: Look for a leadership or team coach that can help identify areas for improvement in how the team is functioning, as well as offer guidance and encouragement
Celebrate successes: Recognize achievements and create a culture of appreciation
Embrace Learning: Actively solicit feedback, new ideas and continual improvement
