I know you’re busy, so I’ll get right to it. Here’s how to lead in 10 simple bullet points.
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Think Big.
See beyond the boundaries that hold others back.
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Stretch yourself.
If you’re not uncomfortable, you’re not growing.
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Be clear about your expectations.
People need to know what success looks like.
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Tell the truth, respectfully.
You can be honest without being brutal. I highly recommend it.
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Be flexible.
Things change. When they do, your plans might, too.
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Have integrity.
Be a person for whom others don’t have to make excuses.
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Celebrate success.
Work is hard. Throw some light in the mix where possible.
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Open your mind to new ways of doing things.
Creativity abounds. Use it.
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Collaborate.
You don’t know it all, but everyone knows something.
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Lead with love.
There is no company without people. Treat people well, and they’ll work harder for you.
Leadership isn’t rocket science, but great leaders are intentional about creating healthy cultures and strong teams. Being the boss doesn’t automatically make you a great leader. And you can be a great leader without being the boss. In fact, the more people who embrace this opportunity, the more successful our businesses and communities will be.
Tara Jaye Frank is CEO of TJF Career Modeling, Corporate Culture Advisor for Hallmark Cards, Inc., and the author of Say Yes: A Woman’s Guide to Advancing Her Professional Purpose, written to help women from all cultural backgrounds chart a career course they can believe in and achieve. Tara consults and speaks on women’s leadership and diversity and inclusion. Follow her on Twitter @tarajfrank, Instagram @tarajayefrank, Facebook at Facebook/tarajayefrank, or visit her at tarajayefrank.com.