Here's what turns managers into GREAT leaders 👇

Leader coaching a team member, offering support and constructive feedback.

👂Listen more than you speak

Give your full attention. Be present. Make eye contact.

When your team feels heard, they'll share solutions you'd never have discovered on your own.

🎯 Set clear expectations

"I thought you meant..." might be the costliest phrase in business.

Clear expectations protect both you and your team by preventing the frustration of doubling up on work.

End conversations with "So to confirm, you'll deliver X by Y date. Do you have what you need to make that happen?"

💬 Give honest feedback (kindly)

Waiting for annual reviews is like checking accounts once a year. Your business grows when feedback flows regularly.

"I loved how you handled that difficult customer. The way you stayed calm saved that relationship. Next time, involving me a bit earlier could help to resolve things even faster."

🚶 Lead by example

Your team watches what you do more than what you say.

Want commitment? Show it first.

Want honesty? Admit your own mistakes.

Want a healthy work-life boundary? Respect theirs.

Your behaviour sets the standard for everything that happens in your company.

📈 Support your team's growth

People stay where they can develop, even in smaller businesses.

This doesn't mean expensive training courses. It could be five minutes sharing your experience, a new responsibility or recognising their progress.

Businesses that keep their best people make growth part of everyday work.

These habits don't need special resources – just consistency.