Positive leadership behaviours should not just be confined to those in leadership roles; it’s everyone’s business and includes behaviours such as proactivity, accountability, ownership, and emotional intelligence. When these qualities are embedded at every level of an organisation, you move towards a culture of high performance.
But what do you need to consider when looking to embed positive leadership behaviours across your organisation?
The “Leadership Shadow”
The “Leadership Shadow” represents a leader’s encompassing influence on an organisation’s culture and the collective behaviour of its employees, acting as an unseen force that moulds attitudes and practices within the workplace. This metaphor highlights the necessity for leaders to practice self-awareness and intentionality in their actions, decisions, and communication, as these elements collectively cast a ‘shadow’—positive or negative—across their teams and the broader organisational environment.
Leaders must recognise that their leadership shadow can unconsciously guide the behaviour of others and, therefore, must consciously engage in behaviours that promote a positive culture and drive the organisation towards its vision and values.
Intent-based leadership
Intent-based leadership is based on the belief that giving team members control over their decisions nurtures engagement and encourages innovation. By doing so, leaders not only empower individuals to make decisions but also encourage a collective sense of ownership and accountability. This model effectively turns every team member into a stakeholder in the company’s success, driving performance and satisfaction.
By being accountable, employees feel a stronger commitment to their tasks and outcomes, leading to higher levels of performance. Leaders can foster this environment through clear communication, setting expectations, and building trust.
You can learn more about this leadership approach here:
The Five Dimensions of Curiosity
Todd Kashdan’s curiosity model underlines the importance of fostering an environment where questions are encouraged and learning never stops. This mindset is critical for adapting to change and for personal and professional development. Leaders who prioritise curiosity and learning ensure their teams are always evolving, keeping pace with industry innovations and staying ahead of the curve.
To read a summary of this model and how it can apply to your organisation, click here https://toddkashdan.medium.com/what-are-the-five-dimensions-of-curiosity-7de73684d53a
When these models are combined, they create a powerful ripple effect across the entire business. Positive leadership behaviours can improve team dynamics, enhance productivity, and lead to better business outcomes. By implementing these practices, leaders can transform their teams and cultivate a high-performing, growth-oriented company culture.
