How do some people naturally become leaders and others just seem to follow them? You can see this happening from the very first personal experiences children have to adults in business. Some people seem to have a natural quality that makes people follow their lead. Those who try to lead often find themselves failing because they lack the qualities that make a good leader. When someone tries to hard it is often seen as pushy or bossy and then the exact opposite of what they were hoping for happens.
This often happens with my daughter and son. She is the oldest by three and a half years which she feels gives her the expertise to lead him and tell him what to do. What she misses in her leadership style is the ability to get something her way without directly asking for it which is what leadership in sales management is all about.
What qualities help determine if your employees will see you as a leader they respect and wish to follow? Many times it is the silent clues that are given that bring people to want to follow your leadership in sales management. It is the example that you set forth, the things that you do to prove that you are part of the team an active member and that you are willing to defend them but also help them when they need it. There are many things that you can do to improve your leadership skills below are just a few examples to improve your rapport with sales team.
Leadership In Sales Management Qualities To Strive For
- You cannot fake caring; people will sniff a rat out every time. In order to be a good leader you really need to have empathy and compassion. It is important to listen when your staff is talking about what matters to them and to remember it for your next encounter. For instance a staff member has a new baby, or parent passes it is important as the leader that you step forth to show goodwill.
- It is important in being a leader to stay a part of your team’s daily life in the office. Go around at least once a day just to say hello. These are the moments when your staff will feel comfortable pulling you into their cubicle to discuss the little details that bother them before they erupt into team shattering events. For instance if Sally has an issue with Bob and the way he is managing his part of the project they are working on. This is the time when not everyone is around that she can come and share that with you.
- Holding meeting regularly. You will often see this practice at major retail chains. They bring their staff together in the meeting for a brief run down and then do a chant to get the day going quirky but effective.
- It is also important that training that takes place for the whole team and not just certain individuals. This shows unity as a whole. As an effective leader hold training for your team a minimum of two times a year. The skills they learn should help them grow as individuals and as members of your team.
- Team building and leadership is all about making work personal. Allow team members to set personal goals, share your goals and team goals with them as they change and are met. Working towards a goal and achieving it is such a momentous achievement for you and them. Share in that gory with them as well as the defeat.
- Manners never get old and your team will be more likely to follow you when you treat them with respect. When you thank your staff for a good job they appreciate that you noticed their efforts and that you were thankful.
Leadership in sales management has many different faces. You will develop the right combination of qualities with experience and by asking for feedback often. Your staff will appreciate that you value their input. It is important as a leader you also look for ways to better yourself and to become more effective in your handling of clients and staff.