12.09.05
Are you an effective leader? It’s easy to tell, according to Gerald D. Bell, Ph.D., a leadership expert and professor at UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School. Through years of research, Dr. Bell discovered a way leaders can measure the effectiveness of their team by evaluating five areas. First, evaluate individual performance. In great teams, each member typically performs at his or her highest level of ability. Terrible teams, even with individuals who might be highly talented, perform below the talents of their members. Second, evaluate your team’s level of selflessness. Dr. Bell points out that in great teams, the individuals become so committed to achieving the goals and mission of the team that they lose themselves in the process. They find their personal satisfaction and reward in achieving the team’s goals more than their own. The third area to evaluate is the morale of the team. If you are an effective leader, employees will love coming to work. They will enjoy one another’s company and have fun executing their roles. Fourth, there should be no fear of failure. On high-performing teams, members are not afraid to fail. They have learned that all they can do is their best and the other team members and leaders will accept them, even if they make mistakes. And finally, does your team show mutual care and support? Members of great teams are close and value their friendships as well as their working relationships. More info: Website: www.bellleadership.com.