Each leader develops their own leadership style that fits best for them and their team. “Hands on Leadership” is my style of leadership. Honestly, I never knew what my style was until my Director of Training and Development, Ron Dennis, mentioned to me a book on this topic. We then put together a workshop on this leadership style as well and it fits me perfectly.
People don’t care what you know until they know how much you care.
~John Maxwell
True hands on leadership emphasizes the importance of building valuable relationships with team members and increases the level of trust amongst the team. Hands on leadership is an art. Understanding your team and how each member functions will set you and your team up for much success.
Hands on leadership is not micromanaging but its leadership that helps you along the way. For me it is being available and walking alongside my staff. It’s not fair to throw someone out there without giving them the support and tools they need to be successful. It allows me to train and help along the way. This leadership style is also staying in tune with what is going on and following up on projects. I think when you are tightly involved, you can see areas where you need to come in and give support or encouragement to your staff. Many times, I have seen my staff get bogged down in projects and I would no have known if I had not been deeply involved. I am not talking about taking on the projects, but simply checking in on your staff often just see how they are doing. You will find this will make a huge difference in productivity and shows your staff that you truly care.
There are several advantages to Hands on Leadership:
- Establishes leader and team credibility
- Facilitates mentoring
- Improves team communication
- Makes you a better leader
By leading this way, over the years I have set many staff up for promotion to new levels of leadership. Many times I take my leadership staff with me to important meetings to expose them to projects that I am involved in. This training is invaluable to them and opens them up for understanding of new projects. I have also been able to move projects forward so much quicker by just giving a helping hand. As I lead this way, I feel extremely fulfilled. Yes, it does take extra time and energy, but the time invested in your staff will go a long way.
Here are a few tips for effective Hands-On-Leadership
- Be present and available
- Set the example
- Don’t be a micromanager
- Stay connected-be involved
If you weren’t able to tune into to last night’s CSU Talk Radio with me and Ron where we talked about Hands-On-Leadership. Also, please post below and share your style of leadership and what has worked for you in the work place with me.
See you on the blog!
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