**She Leader: Confronting the Shadows of Toxic Leadership**
In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, coupled with economic challenges like inflation and heightened competition, we're not just witnessing the emergence of toxic leadership traits. Instead, these detrimental characteristics are embedding themselves in our corporate cultures, taking root and fostering toxic environments. But what exactly constitutes toxic leadership?
Toxic leadership is often characterised by a potent mix of self-serving behaviours, attitudes, and motivations. These leaders harm their subordinates, undermine the organisational ethos, and sabotage mission outcomes. It's not just about making poor decisions; it's about consistently resorting to harmful tactics like deception, coercion, and intimidation to further their own agendas.
While toxic leaders are problematic, they don't always act in isolation. Often, they're part of larger networks, acting as toxic colleagues or team members. Their diligence and loyalty to their organisation might be commendable, but their true intentions are skewed. They prioritise self-promotion, frequently sidelining the needs and aspirations of others.
Keep a lookout for these alarming signs that may indicate toxic leaders or colleagues lurking in your midst:
- Power misuse and manipulation
- Blatant favouritism
- A demand for blind and unquestioned loyalty
- Habitual bullying and intimidation
- Obsessive micromanagement
- Dishonesty or exaggerating challenges
- Using fear as a tool for motivation
- Refusal to accept constructive feedback
- A culture of blame instead of responsibility
So, the million-dollar question: How can we counteract this toxicity and champion better leadership?
**The Power of Empowered Leadership**
Enter empowering leadership, a style that may seem like a gamble, but in reality, is a game-changer. Contrary to diminishing authority, this approach fosters deeper trust between leaders and teams. It eradicates barriers formed by mistrust, streamlining operations and enhancing productivity.
Characteristics of these transformative leaders include:
- Consistent communication of the vision and each member's pivotal role in it.
- Adaptability in communication, ensuring smooth, unhindered conversations.
- Mastery in delegation, building trust and minimising bottlenecks.
- Recognition of every team member's inherent value and active solicitation of their feedback.
- Swift acknowledgment of achievements, fostering a sense of belonging and a positive work culture.
It's not just about an abstract leadership style; it's about adopting an **Empowered Leadership Model**. This model paves the way for resilient, empowered teams that resonate with the organisation's vision and own up to company goals. Rooted in intentionality and unwavering consistency, this approach molds future leaders who can transcend mere objectives, leading organisations to unforeseen heights.
**Wrapping Up**
True leaders understand that monumental visions aren't the achievement of one but the collective success of many. They sow seeds of trust and water them with opportunities, enabling their teams to blossom with creativity and innovation. Interested in transitioning to empowering leadership? Join the #Shetribe and #Shemovement to be a BOLD, Unleashed and Empowered Leader. Don't just be a leader; be an empowerer.
