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Enhancing Your Leadership: The 8 Vital Traits You Must Embrace

As a leader, you must be a changemaker. To run your business or lead your team like you did twelve months ago is to set yourself up for some challenges. We need to stay agile and nimble and pivot when necessary. Doing so will help you recognize opportunities, address issues and prioritize your actions accordingly. The following leadership traits are the ones that you can focus on that will help you progress in your role:

1. VISIONARY:

Cultivate and communicate a clear and inspiring vision to help guide and motivate your team.

2. EMPATHETIC:

We all have different levels of emotional intelligence. Determine how to develop a deeper understanding of your team’s emotions and needs and respond with support.

3. ADAPTABLE:

Foster an environment for your team members whereby they are motivated by innovation and continued best practices to help them improve in their roles, which in turn will result in improved team and organizational results.

4. HUMBLE:

Acknowledge your limitations and share credit with your team members.

5. ACTIVELY LISTEN:

Be attentive in conversations, stop multitasking and give your full attention. When you are fully listening, you will be more able to be curious, ask clarifying questions, and seek to understand rather than give an answer or immediately solve a problem.

6. POSITIVE THINKER:

Some see a glass half full while others will see the same half empty. When we can demonstrate and practice optimism with our team members, they will, too. This will help develop resilience, enable you to take the emotions out of a situation, stick to the facts, and encourage a culture of optimism that will make it a better workplace.

7. RELIABLE:

When you are consistent and persistent in your actions, you will be known as reliable, and that, in turn, will increase the trust factor within your team.

8. GENUINE:

Nothing is worse than someone trying to be someone they are not. Be true to your values, communicate your expectations and be clear on the objectives and results you need in your team or business.

 

Want more support in your leadership journey? Book a complimentary 30-minute  consultation to find out how Jenny Reilly Consulting can help you. Or, please email askme@jennyreilly.com to coordinate a convenient consultation time.

 

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Key Negotiation Skills and Strategies For Successful Leadership

In leadership, negotiation skills go beyond being a mere asset; they form the very cornerstone of success. Whether your aim is to secure crucial resources for your team or adeptly navigate conflicts, the ability to negotiate effectively can distinguish between leadership that merely manages and leadership that excels.

Let’s explore key negotiation strategies and how honing these skills can elevate your leadership effectiveness.

1. COLLABORATIVE PROBLEM-SOLVING:

Cultivate and communicate a clear and inspiring vision to help guide and motivate your team. Be transparent in the issues and challenges you are focused on solving together.

Leadership Impact:

  • Strengthening team cohesion.
  • Fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
  • Building trust and rapport with team members.

2. ACTIVE LISTENING:

One of the most underestimated negotiation skills is the art of active listening. Leaders who listen attentively not only gain a deeper understanding of others’ perspectives, but also convey respect and empathy. This skill is particularly crucial in resolving conflicts where acknowledging different viewpoints lays the foundation for constructive dialogue.

Leadership Impact:

  • Enhancing communication and understanding within the team.
  • Mitigating conflicts through empathetic engagement.
  • Demonstrating genuine interest in team members’ concerns.

“Embrace the power of listening with the intent to understand, not just to respond.”

—Jenny Reilly

3. FLEXIBILITY AND ADAPTABILITY:

Adaptable leaders excel in negotiations as they can navigate unexpected twists and turns. Flexibility allows leaders to adjust strategies based on evolving circumstances, turning challenges into opportunities. This skill is especially valuable when negotiating in rapidly changing environments.

Leadership Impact:

  • Successfully navigating complex and dynamic situations.
  • Inspiring confidence by demonstrating adaptability.
  • Capitalizing on unforeseen opportunities.

4. STRATEGIC PLANNING:

Negotiation, like any strategic endeavor, benefits from meticulous planning. Leaders who invest time in understanding their objectives, anticipating potential obstacles, and crafting well-thought-out strategies are better positioned to achieve successful outcomes. Strategic planning also instills confidence and competence that are vital components of effective leadership.

Negotiation Strategies - Jenny Reilly Consulting, Vancouver Executive Coach

Leadership Impact:

  • Achieving targeted goals with precision.
  • Building a reputation for strategic foresight.
  • Inspiring confidence in team members through clear planning.

5. EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE:

Leaders with high emotional intelligence navigate negotiations with finesse. Understanding and managing emotions, both their own and others’, allow leaders to create an environment conducive to open communication. Leaders who can empathize and connect on an emotional level often find it easier to influence and motivate their teams.

Leadership Impact:

  • Cultivating a positive and collaborative culture.
  • Inspiring loyalty and commitment from team members.
  • Enhancing overall team well-being and satisfaction.

6. ASSERTIVENESS AND CONFIDENCE:

Confidence is contagious, and assertiveness is a key negotiation skill that reinforces it. Leaders who can assert their needs and preferences, while respecting others’ viewpoints, command respect. This balance of assertiveness and respect forms the bedrock of influential leadership.

Leadership Impact:

  • Fostering a culture of accountability and decisiveness.
  • Gaining the respect and trust of team members.
  • Encouraging open communication and idea-sharing.

CONCLUSION:

In leadership, negotiation mastery isn’t just a skill; it’s the art of turning challenges into opportunities and conflicts into collaborations. Honing negotiation skills is not just a professional development goal but a strategic imperative for leaders. Leaders can navigate negotiations with finesse by embracing collaborative problem-solving, active listening, flexibility, strategic planning, emotional intelligence, and assertiveness. These skills secure favourable outcomes and contribute to building strong, cohesive teams and establishing a leadership legacy characterized by effectiveness and influence. As you navigate the complexities of leadership, remember: The true measure of a leader lies not just in what they achieve, but in how they inspire others to achieve together.

Reach out today to learn more about how Jenny Reilly Consulting can support you in strengthening your negotiation skills. You can book a complimentary 30-minute  consultation.  Or, please email  askme@jennyreilly.com to coordinate a convenient consultation time.

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18 Ways To Unlock Powerful Leadership Skills

As leaders, we have the responsibility to guide and inspire. Here are 18 powerful leadership skills that will help you navigate the ever-changing leadership landscape successfully.

1. Ask Challenging Questions

Ask questions that ignite innovation and drive change. Challenge the status quo by asking tough questions and seeking connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. Innovation often stems from these connections.

2. Balance Work And Life

Leaders often find themselves burning the candle at both ends to stay on top of professional and personal expectations. It is crucial to maintain a healthy work-life balance and prioritize family and self-care time, as it sets an example of the value you have of your team members doing the same as well.

3. Build Trust Through Transparency

Transparency is the bedrock of trust in leadership, unlock the power of trust through open and honest communication. Share your successes and, just as importantly, your failures with your team. This vulnerability not only humanizes you but also fosters an environment where everyone feels safe to take calculated risks and learn from their experiences.

Leadership Skills - Jenny Reilly Consulting, Vancouver Executive Coaching4. Celebrate Achievements And Win

Don’t forget to celebrate achievements, both big and small. Recognize the hard work and dedication of your team members and acknowledge them publicly. Celebrations create a positive and motivating work environment.

5. Challenge The Status Quo

Don’t let outdated policies stifle innovation. Regularly evaluate and update policies as needed. Managing unconventionally and with confidence allows for adaptation and growth.

6. The Art Of Precision And Follow-Up

Leaders who shine exhibit unwavering commitment, meticulous attention to detail, and prompt follow-up. These traits not only set you apart but also inspire trust and confidence among your colleagues and team members.

7. Uncompromising Quality

Pledge to deliver nothing less than exceptional quality in all you do. Luck may play a role, but true success comes from a dedicated commitment to quality. It’s not just about chance; it’s about consistently delivering excellence in everything you do.

8. Tech Savvy Leadership

Leaders must embrace technology and adapt swiftly to stay ahead in the digital age. Stay updated on emerging trends and technologies that can enhance your organization’s efficiency and competitiveness. Be open to innovation and encourage your team to explore new tools and methodologies.

9. Your Presence Matters

Master the art of making a lasting impression through your impression and demeanor. Your appearance and posture make a significant first impression. Regardless of your industry, presenting yourself with care demonstrates your commitment to what you do and where you work. Stand tall (yes, as a vertically challenged individual standing at 5 foot 2 inches on a good day, I practice what I preach), make an effort about your physical appearance, keep your emotions in check, and always be ready to think on your feet.

10. Know Your Customers/Clients

The 80/20 rule reminds us to focus on the vital few customers who make a difference in your organization. Get to know them intimately, ask questions, and show genuine interest in their needs. It’s a strategy that pays dividends.

11. Lead By Example

Set the example that inspires others to follow. Your actions speak louder than words, and our determination will inspire those around you. What kind of leader do you want to be? Now, be that leader and demonstrate the traits you identify as key.

Leadership Skills - Jenny Reilly Consulting, Vancouver Executive Coaching12. Optimize Your Workspace

Transform your environment for peak productivity and creativity. An organized office environment boosts efficiency and creativity. When you walk into an orderly space, you’ll find it easier to maintain focus and productivity.

13. Delegation Mastery

Empower your team by mastering the art of delegation. Delegation is a hallmark of effective management. Empower your team by delegating tasks wisely, building their skills, and allowing them to advance. Remember, the ability to delegate is the trait of a good leader. It enables you to build people’s skills and allows them to advance.

14. The Power Of Observation

Embrace your leadership prowess through the art of keen observation. As leaders, our ability to read people and situations is paramount. By actively listening, observing, and being mindful of our surroundings, we can gain a profound understanding of the needs and expectations of our clients, colleagues, and staff. Remember, talking less can speak volumes.

15. Consistent Action For Success

“Success isn’t always about greatness. It’s about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.” — Dwayne Johnson

Unlock your potential through persistent, unwavering commitment to your goals. In the pursuit of large or complex projects, persistence is key. Every step you take brings you closer to your ultimate goal. Keep taking those steps, one day at a time, and you’ll see its difference. Persistence and continuous action will get you to your end goal more efficiently and faster.

16. Feedback Fuels Growth

Regular feedback through one-on-ones and team meetings is invaluable and can be transformative in nurturing growth. Understanding the challenges of your team members (professionally and personally), showing empathy and support and creating a workplace where mental health and well-being are a priority will increase engagement and result in retention.

17. Humility Is A Strength

Great leaders aren’t afraid to admit when they ‘don’t know,’ ‘need help,’ or were ‘wrong.’ Embrace situations with humility – a tool for growth and collaboration that not only strengthens your leadership but also fosters a culture of openness within your team.

18. Time And Organizational Management Mastery

Efficiently manage time and tasks to supercharge your productivity and effectiveness. Effective leaders manage their time and organize their tasks efficiently. Share your preferred time and organizational management systems with your team to enhance productivity.

“It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

 

In our fast-paced working environments, these insights and reminders will help you stay ahead of the curve. As you continue your leadership journey, remember that the best leaders are always learning and evolving and are committed to growth, both personally and professionally.

If you want more information or support in strengthening your leadership skills,  you can book a complimentary 30-minute  consultation to find out how Jenny Reilly Consulting can help you. Or, please email askme@jennyreilly.com to coordinate a convenient consultation time.

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The Importance of Transitions

“It is when we are in transition that we are most completely alive.”
— William Bridges

This quote from William Bridges emphasizes the importance of transitions in our personal and professional lives. While some transitions can be challenging to prepare for, they can also give us energy, motivation, and inspiration. How we react during a change is critical to our success as leaders. We must focus on our leadership traits and how we react in different situations, primarily how we handle stress and unpredictability.

It’s essential to listen first, act consistently, and communicate transparently.

Here are some tips to keep in mind during a transition:

  • FOCUS on the next best step you can make and act on it.
  • THINK about the consequences of what you say and how you say it – before opening your mouth.
  • LISTEN to your team, ask questions, and be curious.
  • USE facts to back up your perceptions.
  • INVEST in what will put you in a better position to improve productivity.
  • CREATE a one-page document that includes your vision, values, strategy pillars, and targets – this will help you remain focused on what is critical to the triple bottom line and not get sidetracked.
  • FOCUS on what you are good at and what you can get results on that no one else can – delegate everything else, and don’t get stuck in the minutia.

Remember to be conscious of your time management, the talent you are surrounded by, and your operating rhythm to ensure you spend time on what matters most. Conduct a weekly review and preview of your priorities to stay on track and focus time quarterly on organizational operational and strategic issues.

Transitions can be challenging but can also be opportunities for growth and success. Embrace the change, focus on what you can control, and lead with clarity and purpose.

“Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.”
— John C. Maxwell

If you have any questions or want to learn more on the powerful benefits of executive coaching to elevate your success, please contact us or reach out directly to jenny@jennyreilly.com and book a complimentary 30-minute strategy session.

 

 

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Returning to Normal Operations After COVID-19 in British Columbia

Reduced Restrictions for Covid-19 in British Columbia

In British Columbia, our Premier announced on June 24th, 2020, that our Province is moving into Phase 3 and reduced restrictions. It is an intentional slow return as we reopen the economy, and limitations begin to loosen. Business owners still have many questions and issues to address from an operational and human perspective before returning to more regular work practices after Covid-19. It is entirely understandable that employees may remain fearful or worried due to the pandemic, whether they are physically in the workplace, or continue working remotely. The identification of employee stressors needs to be recognized and addressed to enable additional help or support.

COVID-19

Business Owners’ Concerns

The primary concern of business owners remains to be the importance of worker safety and the measures to put in place to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus. Safety plans are an essential component of the return to work protocol. They should outline guidelines, policies, and procedures that are put in place to reduce the transmission risk of COVID–19 in British Columbia.

 

There are multiple steps required in formulating an organizational COVID-19 Safety Plan, including the assessment of the workplace, submittal of the plan for approval to relevant provincial or national bodies, posting and communication of the plan to staff and clients, and the formation of a workplace COVID-19 safety committee to review the plan and make changes as necessary.

 

Although we are entering a period of reduced restrictions, we need to ensure that we do not become complacent. To ward off another spike in numbers, we have to be vigilant in containing the virus’s spread.  Physical proximity measures and the frequent cleaning of potentially contaminated surfaces needs to be a priority. The fear of person-to-person transmission is heightened as individuals come into contact with more people, and spaces become busier.

Covid-19

Small- to large- businesses need to focus on the:

 

  • Establishment and posting of occupancy reduced numbers
  • Limit of essential people in the workplace
  • Staggered start and end times of work
  • Continuation of remote or off-site work arrangements, encouragement of virtual meetings and reallocation of tasks
  • Workplace cleanliness and disinfection of entryways, reception areas, break rooms, meeting rooms, doorknobs, handrails, bathrooms, light switches, elevator buttons, etc.
  • Rearranged floorplans to ensure workers are at least 6 feet in distance from colleagues, customers, clients and workspace visitors
  • Installation of plexiglass barriers where necessary to assist in the maintenance of physical distancing
  • Implementation of continued frequent handwashing and revised cleaning and disinfecting protocols to address the risk of surface transmission as more individuals are touching the same surfaces
  • Layout of reception areas, high traffic thoroughfares and conference room set-ups
  • Establishment of one-way walking paths in the office to help with traffic flow and keeping people better separated
  • Personal safety requirements including the use of masks, and communication of how masks are required to be utilized and cared for them to ensure correct usage.

 

 

The Communication of New Policies

With all the precautions that are being considered and implemented, a crucial part of the plan lies in the communication and training of the new policies. Training can be as simple as releasing a video with new practices along with a written document, so there is a visual and written guide on expectations before individuals return to the workplace and ongoing communication to monitor what is and what is not working in the office space. A weekly safety review and update to the staff at the end of the week highlighting changes made and requesting input on any areas that need focus. Policies also need to be communicated on the potential steps required to take place if an illness arises in the workplace and how the working conditions will then be adjusted. Symptom identification is expected to be reported, and self-isolation is necessary until the individual is clear to come back to the workplace. A continuation of assessment, monitoring, and addressing of operational risks will continue for the foreseeable future.

What to Ask Employees to Ensure Safety

There is a great deal for employers to consider as they reassure employees of return to work safety measures, provide reassurance, and implement rigorous procedures to ensure staff and client safety.  Four questions at a minimum to ask employees:

 

  1. Do you understand the revised company health and safety policies and protocols implemented to reduce the risk of COVID-19 in the workplace?
  2. How have the new procedures or protocols impacted how you work?
  3. What personal concerns or needs do you have in returning to the workplace? And once back in the workplace, what additional improvements would you recommend be implemented in the workplace to address health and safety COVID-19 transmission concerns?
  4. Can you identify areas of stress regarding returning to work, social distancing, or new policy and protocol measures to address your needs better?

 

Communication and training are essential components to the success of new measures being implemented in workplaces for employee safety, peace of mind, and reduced stress levels.

 

 

Get in Touch with an Expert

If you would like a 15-minute strategy session to discuss and brainstorm communication or training priority concerns, please book a free strategy call.

 

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#covid19returntowork

#returntowork

#covidsafetypolicies

 

 

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