The Positive Impact of My Leadership Style on My Team

As a leader, my primary goal is to create a positive and thriving work environment that fosters growth, innovation, and collaboration. My leadership style, represented as an 'i' on the DiSC chart, is characterized by being people-focused, flexible, and empathetic. This article explores how my leadership style positively impacts my team and how I manage their diverse needs and unexpected changes in a fast-paced work environment.

Understanding the DiSC Model

The DiSC model is a work-style inventory that breaks down different leadership and work styles into four categories: D (dominant), i (influential), S (steadiness), and C (conscientious). 'i'-styles leaders tend to be fast, flexible, personable, and empathetic. By leveraging my influential leadership style, I can guide my team members effectively and create a positive and supportive work environment.

Adapting to Diverse Team Members

Managing a team of ten individuals is challenging because each team member is unique and has different needs, strengths, and weaknesses. Life circumstances, mood swings, and even a poor night's sleep can all impact a team member's performance. To address these challenges, I dedicate 25 hours of my week to one-on-one (1:1) meetings with each team member. These meetings are crucial in understanding their state of mind, capabilities, and areas where they need support. This helps me adapt the team's approach to align with individual needs and course correct when necessary.

Establishing Trust and Positive Relationships

One of the core aspects of my leadership style is building trust with my team members. The 1:1 meetings are not only about addressing immediate needs but also establishing a foundation of trust and mutual respect. High trust relationships enable me to stay attuned to the team's energy levels and overall mood, allowing me to set the right tone for the team. This understanding helps me create a more positive and uplifting work environment, which is essential for long-term success and satisfaction.

Facilitating the Right Work Environment

A significant component of my role involves creating a work environment that is free from negative influences, often referred to as "removing the suck." By maintaining high trust relationships, I can effectively manage the team's energy levels and ensure that the team operates with a positive and productive mindset. This proactive approach helps in setting the right dynamic for collaboration and innovation.

Supporting Team Goals and Client Engagement

After establishing a positive work environment, I shift my focus to supporting the team in achieving its goals. This involves engaging with clients, participating in operational activities, and exploring new opportunities that can drive growth and innovation. My fast and flexible leadership style is particularly beneficial in managing the uncertainties and changes that come with different client engagements. By making quick decisions based on the best available information and being willing to adapt these decisions as new information emerges, I can effectively navigate the complexities of the work environment.

Personal Reflections and Enjoyment in Work

While my work may not be seen as particularly special from an external perspective, the joy and satisfaction I derive from working with every member of my team is immense. By systematically working to improve the work environment and the lives of my team members, I aim to make a difference in their daily experiences. This commitment to creating a positive and supportive work culture is what drives me to continually improve and adapt to the needs of my team and stakeholders.

Leadership is not just about achieving goals; it's about building a team that thrives, grows, and supports each other. By embracing my influential leadership style and prioritizing trust-building and adaptability, I am able to create a positive impact on my team and provide a work environment that fosters success and satisfaction for all.