Do you feel like you need to be involved in every aspect of your business in order for it to thrive? What if you could build a business that thrives without you having to be there? In order for this to happen, you have to build a team that can run the business without you – and that starts with choosing a strong leadership team. Today, I’m sharing the 8 traits you need to look for in a next-level leadership team so your business can grow and thrive (even when you’re not around).
Why Micromanaging is a Recipe for Burnout
In my early career, I worked with leaders who believed being the first in the office and last to leave was the key to success. For a while, I agreed with them. But what I’ve learned since is that this mindset stifles growth and innovation, and leads to burnout.
8 Traits to Look for in Next-Level Leaders
Developing a team that can take ownership of the business requires more than delegation—it’s about finding the right people and developing their growth and leadership skills. Today, let’s just look at how to identify the people that you can develop. Here are 8 key traits to look for when identifying leaders who can drive the business forward:
1. Solution Mindset
Leaders should focus on solving problems, not assigning blame. They take accountability, collaborate to overcome challenges, and shift their focus from “what went wrong” to “how can we fix it?”
2. Future-Focused and Growth-Oriented
They don’t just think about the present but plan for where the business needs to go. Growth isn’t always about doing more—it can be about streamlining, simplifying, and improving processes for efficiency and scalability.
3. Aligned Vision and Values
Ensure their personal values and vision for success align with the company’s mission and culture. Misalignment can create a toxic work culture, which can crush even the best company vision.
4. Above-the-Line Behavior
Great leaders stay above the line. They avoid gossip and negativity, and they set a positive tone, support collaboration, and inspire trust within the team.
5. Respect for the Team
They embrace the philosophy of Ubuntu: “If the collective is great, the individual is great.” These leaders invest in team success, and make sure no one is left behind.
6. Grounded and Level-Headed Under Pressure
When chaos happens, these leaders remain calm, collected, and focused. They bring stability to the team and guide them through challenges.
7. Drive to Learn
Strong leaders constantly seek ways to grow and innovate. They ask questions, explore new ideas, and stay curious about improving themselves and the organization.
8. Empathy and Understanding
Empathetic leaders see and support greatness in others. They are invested in their team’s development, and help each person reach their potential.
Aligning People, Processes, and Priorities
Building a business that thrives will depend on aligning the right people, the right processes, and the right priorities. Look for these 8 traits in your leadership team, and you can build a thriving, self-sustaining business (even when you’re not around!).
Resources Mentioned
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📝 Uncover Your Biggest Blindspots with the Entrepreneur Quiz
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