5 Leadership Skills Essential To Owning A Successful Business

It goes without saying that a business cannot thrive without a good leader, and good leaders have distinct leadership skills that make them successful.

We’ve all seen a manager who’s completely aloof to what’s really going on, or who just doesn’t get people. But aside from people skills, what makes an effective leader?

Leadership skills usually take time and practice to develop, and there are a lot of different skills to master.

A good leader is multi-talented. Everyone has weaknesses, but they admit their weaknesses and works to make them their strengths.

While leadership styles vary for different businesses, here are 5 skills that every business owner should have… 

1. Creativity 

People think that creativity is just a talent some people are born with, but it’s actually a skill that requires hard work and a lot of thinking to master.

You need to have lots of ideas for your business, but you need to be able to root out the bad ones. 

Chances are your business will be constantly changing with the markets and the times, and leaders need to have creative solutions to stay successful.

If you’re ever in a rut creatively, try taking a break—do a mindless task and just think. Go someplace beautiful and inspiring, take a walk, or write in a journal.

Creativity thrives in positive environments, not stressful ones.

Look at what other people have done; don’t be afraid to take inspiration from other businesses’ ideas (if they are good), and always, always get input from people you trust.

2. Communication

This is one of the most crucial leadership skills for a successful business. Poor communication is the reason for many failed relationships and businesses.

Communication is not only telling employees what you’re doing and expecting the same from them, but it’s also about seeking real feedback on what’s working and what’s not.

Be open with your employees.

When you make a decision, tell people why you made it. Then they don’t have to wonder or seek out an answer. If you say you’re going to do something and don’t end up doing it, tell people why. 

On the opposite end, leaders need to be good listeners.

Employees often feel they are not valued or heard enough in the workplace.

Leaders should recognize when an employee wants to give their honest feelings and should always treat them with fairness and empathy.

3. Enthusiasm

If you’re not excited about your business, chances are your employees won’t be either.

People start businesses because they are passionate about something, and it should show in how they act! 

Emotions are contagious, and positive ones are good for business and life in general.

If you, as a business leader, go into work showing enthusiasm for what you do every day, you will no doubt inspire employees to have the same attitude.

In turn, they will likely want to work harder, create relationships with customers, and generate more revenue.

4. Decisiveness

Another of the many leadership skills that make businesses successful is decisiveness. The ability to make decisions and make them quickly is what really moves life forward.

Many people like to research their options thoroughly before making decisions, but business leaders don’t always have that luxury. 

CEOs such as Elaine Rau have no choice but to make tough decisions.  Though, all too often they either draw out the process and slow down business or put off making a decision at all.

The best option is to develop and stick to a thinking process that propels decision making. For example, answer the questions of “Will this benefit more people than it harms?” or “Is this in line with the company’s mission?”

A good decision should make sense and be easy to explain. Quick decision-making creates confidence in the workplace.

However, not all solutions are good, and leaders should take a second look if the decision raises more issues. 

5. Humbleness 

Lastly, a good leader needs to be humble.

Of course, you should be proud of owning a successful business but recognize the fact that you could not do it alone. Give back to your employees and be willing to take advice. 

Don’t let pride or your vision blind you from important issues.

A business should not exclusively revolve around the leader’s vision; leaders should be realistic and have everyone’s best interests in mind.

Don’t just sit in an office behind the title of CEO.

Instead, work directly with employees to show them how you want the job done. People respect leaders who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. 

There are so many other skills essential to good leadership, like determination, self-awareness, organization, and responsibility. But it all comes down to being positive and working hard.

People can easily spot someone who’s only in it for the money. But if you’re passionate and truly care about what you do, your business will have a much higher chance of success.

Additional articles you might be interested in: 

• 5 Qualities That Define Great Leadership
• 5 Practical Leadership Behaviors That Will Lead Your Team To Success
• Why Accepting Your Flaws Will Make You A Better Leader
• 7 Tips For Getting Your Business Ideas Up And Running
• 5 Tips For Running A Successful Business
• 4 Ways To Make Your Employees Feel Like A Valuable Asset
• 5 Ways To Get Your Cash Flow In Order
• How To Use Empathy In Customer Service
• How To Find Your Passion
• 5 Ideas For Incentives To Reward High Performing Employees
• How To Be A Boss Your Employees Look Up To
• 11 CEOs Who Are Crushing It On Instagram
• How To Rock Every Day With Confidence
• How To Bring Your Best Self To Your Business
• 7 Productivity And Organizational Skills For Entrepreneurs

Fiona Morgan is currently a blogging intern at LadyBossBlogger. She attends Asbury University in Kentucky and is studying journalism with a minor in art. Fiona has an interest in blogging and a passion for using writing to help others. Her hobbies include traveling, biking, painting, and photography.