Photo by Pablo Varela

Leadership is a huge part of a founder’s journey. It’s not just about calling the shots; it’s about inspiring and guiding your team towards your shared vision. Think building a community, inspiring and empowering others, and more. 

BUT this doesn’t mean you can’t be a business owner if you’re not an amazing leader right off the bat. We all have to start somewhere and that’s perfectly okay because leadership styles differ and every founder’s journey is unique. It’s important to find what works for you and your business – and begin cultivating what that is as early as possible. 

Why is good leadership important?

Good leadership is like the glue that holds everything together in a business. It’s about more than just making decisions and setting goals; it’s about being the kind of person people want to follow. With 79% of employees quitting their jobs because they feel underappreciated, knowing how to communicate and engage with your team goes a long way in getting the support you need when you need it. 

From leading the charge with making your Small Business Digital Ready to raising the bar in employee engagement, when leaders are on point, they inspire trust and teamwork. They make everyone feel like they’re part of something bigger, and that can make a huge difference. It’s like creating a vibe where everyone feels valued and motivated to do their best. Plus, when tough times come knocking (and you better believe they will), good leadership helps steer the ship through choppy waters and keeps everyone focused on the end goal: success!

So, what leadership traits do you need in your toolkit to tackle any challenge that comes your way? 

Here are the 10 essential leadership qualities founders should have.

🏅Vision and Clarity

Picture this: You’re the captain of your ship, and your crew needs to know where they’re headed. Having a clear vision and communicating it effectively is like plotting the course to success.

🏅Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Ever had a boss who just “gets” you? That’s the power of empathy and emotional smarts. Understanding your team’s feelings builds trust and camaraderie.

🏅Adaptability and Flexibility

Think of entrepreneurship like a rollercoaster ride. You’ve got to be ready to roll with the twists and turns, pivoting when needed and embracing change with open arms.

🏅Decisiveness and Confidence

Sometimes, you’ve got to make tough calls. Trusting your gut and making informed decisions with confidence are all part of the gig.

🏅Empowerment and Delegation

Want to see your team thrive? Give them wings to fly! Delegating tasks and empowering your crew fosters innovation and a sense of ownership.

🏅Resilience and Perseverance

Entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint. Expect setbacks, but bounce back stronger each time. That’s the name of the game.

🏅Transparency and Openness

No secrets here! Transparency builds trust. Share the highs and lows with your team, and watch your bond grow stronger.

🏅Diversity and Inclusion

Variety is the spice of life, and your team is no different. Embrace different backgrounds and perspectives to fuel creativity and innovation.

🏅Strategic Thinking

It’s like playing chess but with your business. Plan ahead, but stay nimble enough to seize opportunities as they arise.

🏅Clear Communication

Last but not least, keep those lines of communication wide open. Be a good listener, and ensure your message is crystal clear to avoid any confusion.

As you grow into your role as a founder, the more you will know exactly what your business needs, and how you can best lead your team to success. With your roadmap to leadership greatness at hand, get ready to lead the charge and make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality! 

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