Five Simple Skills That Make You a Better Leader.

We are now in the age of disruption, in an ever increasingly complex world. Despite all of this, the one common denominator is customers want it simpler and easier than ever. There is a real art form in making the complex and difficult, simple. It allows staff and all interested parties to buy into your vision.

In a time poor society we crave nothing more than simplicity and inclusion. Being able to deliver this as a leader to your staff will set you on the path to success. Below are the simplest yet most important skills that have helped me throughout the years.

1. Painting the Picture/ Storytelling

"Art is not what you see but what you make others see."- Edgar Degas

Leaders need to be great storytellers in order to paint the pictures of their ideas. Effective and visual communication brings teams along for the ride and will have them brought into your vision. An effective leader can paint a picture and get the buy in of the masses very quickly.

2. Listening

"One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say" - Bryant H. McGill

At the foundation of any strong relationship is listening. All the great leaders I have ever been lucky to work with have this skill set in spades. They listen to customers, colleagues and stake holders alike. By understanding and hearing the wants and needs are informed actions can be made with all in mind.

3. Appreciation

"Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words is all that is needed," - Margaret Cousins

Effective leaders are always appreciative of those who contribute to their success. Being grateful and acknowledging others contributions keeps leaders down to earth, appreciated and well received. Not only does it make you feel great but it also helps strengthen relationships and scientifically increases others willingness to help in the future.

4. Passion

"The only way to do a great job is to love what you do." - Steve Jobs

Leaders who can bring passion to what they do will stand out head and shoulders above the rest. Passion is infectious and if harnessed can drive individuals to achieve greatness.

5. Responsiveness

"It is not the strongest who survive; nor the most intelligent, but the most responsive to change" - Charles Darwin

The best leaders are those who are thoughtful and responsive. Creating a culture of responsiveness will not only win over your customers and stakeholders, but drive accountability. Being responsive shows you are aware, care and are involved. Creating a responsive team allows your staff to have a positive impact on your organisation.

Put simply, the most effective leaders are those who can take the team along for the journey relish in the success, learn from the failures and acknowledge everyone for playing their part. If you do nothing more than listen more and have a clear vision you are heading in the right direction to making a positive impact on your team.