collaboration

Things that set you apart as a leader

Discover the habits that make you a standout team leader.

Sabina Vardanashvili

Nov 25, 2024 • 3 min read

Great team leaders earn their titles by gaining the team's trust, inspiring them to achieve more, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. But what exactly sets the great ones apart?

The article highlights 10 key habits that outstanding team leaders embrace. And you should too. The listed tips will help you become a leader your team looks up to.

They lead by example

Great leaders don't just tell their team what to do. Instead, they show them how it's done. Whether it's staying calm under pressure or pitching in during a crunch, leading by example sets the tone for the entire team. If you expect your team to be punctual, collaborative, and proactive, embody these traits yourself.

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Here's a tip. An alternative way to set an example is by embracing your strength traits. Don't know them? Take 10 minutes to get to know yourself and why you do things the way you do.

They communicate clearly

Clear communication means clear thoughts and an overall understanding of where the team is heading. Great leaders understand the team's goals, expectations, and think through feedback. They also listen to all their team's concerns and ideas.

To support your innovative intentions, don't be afraid to try new tools

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Here's a tip. Hold regular check-ins to ensure everyone's on the same page and feels heard. Use workspaces like Orchestra that prioritize communication and make it easy to collaborate in one space. The right app makes all the difference.

They foster a positive culture

Work can be challenging, but a positive environment can make all the difference. Great leaders celebrate wins, encourage creativity, and make the workplace enjoyable.

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Here's a tip. A simple recognition during team meetings can go a long way in boosting morale.

They delegate wisely

Micromanaging stifles growth. Great leaders trust their team to handle tasks independently, giving them the space to excel while being available for support.

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Here's a tip. Prefer apps that support a clear vision and make your workspace structured. Tools like Orchestra are going to assist you in this. Since it has elegant and various customizable task boards, it lets you handle projects' nuances instead of managing how to set up the workspace for a team.

They invest in their team’s growth

Great leaders foresee the potential in their team members. This means offering opportunities for professional development, skill-building, and career growth.

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Here's a tip. Educate your team and provide access to training sessions, mentorship programs, or resources that align with your common goals.

They handle conflicts constructively

Conflict is inevitable, but how it's handled defines a team's success. Great leaders mediate disputes fairly and focus on finding solutions that benefit everyone.

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Here's a tip. Address conflicts early, and ensure conversations remain respectful and solution-oriented.

They inspire accountability

Accountability is about creating a sense of ownership. Encourage team members to take responsibility for their actions while providing support to overcome challenges. As the best ones usually do.

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Here's a tip. Celebrate successes and treat mistakes as learning opportunities.

They stay adaptable

The best leaders roll with the punches. Whether it's a sudden project change or unexpected challenges, adaptability keeps the team moving forward.

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Here's a tip. Encourage flexibility in your team by staying calm and solution-focused when plans shift.

They build trust

Trust is the foundation of any successful team. Great leaders build trust by being honest, dependable, and consistent in their actions.

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Here's a tip. Keep your promises, admit mistakes, and be transparent with your team.

They focus on the big picture

While it's important to handle day-to-day tasks, great leaders keep an eye on the broader goals. They help their team see how their efforts contribute to the bigger picture, fostering motivation and purpose.

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Here's a tip. Regularly remind your team of the mission and how their work impacts overall success.

Being a great team leader isn't about perfection — it's about progress. By focusing on these 10 habits, you'll not only grow as a leader but also create an environment where your team can thrive.