In today’s demanding business environment, effective leadership is essential for success, particularly in the challenging retail sector. A recent Harvard Business Review (HBR) article outlined four pivotal behaviours that distinguish successful leaders, offering valuable insights for self-reflection.
1) Decisive leadership stands out not for infallible decision-making, but for prompt and resolute action. Decisive leaders make decisions faster even without all the information which fosters momentum and drives progress. In the research data, people who were described as “decisive” were 12 times more likely to be high-performing leaders.
2) Successful leaders excel in stakeholder engagement, garnering support for their initiatives through clear communication and strategic influence. They prioritise organisational advancement over personal popularity, fostering trust and alignment among team members and stakeholders alike. They are prepared to make the tough and sometimes uncomfortable decisions when required.
3) Adaptability is a hallmark of effective leadership. Leaders who embrace change as an opportunity for growth, viewing setbacks as learning experiences, are better equipped to anticipate and respond to shifting dynamics in the business landscape. The focus on the big picture, without forgetting about the short and medium term, which allows them to sense change earlier and take advantage of it.
4) Reliability in delivering results is paramount. A stunning 94% of the strong leaders they analysed scored high on consistently following through on their commitments. They therefore foster a culture of accountability within their teams. They also prioritise performance over personal comfort and loyalty, ensuring that their teams are composed of top talent capable of meeting and exceeding expectations.
In summary, successful leadership hinges on these four core behaviours: decisiveness, stakeholder engagement, adaptability, and reliability. By embodying these traits, leaders can navigate challenges, inspire teams, and drive sustained success in today’s dynamic business environment.
Roger Simpson – CEO, The Retail Solution and Author of “The Ultimate Retail Sales Experience” With over 35 years’ industry experience, Roger Simpson is recognized as Australia’s #1 Authority on customer ROI in the retail industry and as a global expert on staff coaching, customer service, and selling skills.
