The major difference between a great leader and an average one is the power to inspire others. Whether you are taking on your first managerial role or have been a leader for some time now, the key element behind becoming an inspirational leader is self-analysis and improvement on a regular basis. Great leaders believe that they can keep developing their skills and abilities over time

A recent survey revealed that only about 20 per cent of the teams think their leaders have a clear vision about where to take the organization. With rapid advancement in technologies, shifting marketing trends, and changing customer desires to survive well into the future, companies should have inspiring leaders who can motivate and guide their teams to accomplish challenging goals.

Leadership is all about authenticity, which can be true when you give it your own definition. Inspirational leaders drive their teams towards accomplishing much more than their goals and, at the same time, also motivate each team member to reach their own individual best. They often accomplish this by replicating the skills, traits and attitudes that they want their employees to demonstrate.

Traits of an Inspirational Leader

Positivity: Inspirational leaders maintain a positive attitude to increase office morale

Gratitude: People are more likely to be loyal and continue to work successfully if they receive praises and gratitude for their hard work

Passion: If you have a passion for the work you do and the people you work with, it can help you inspire others

Integrity: Integrity shows your team that they can depend on your judgment and trust you with sensitive matters

Curiosity: Inspirational leaders never stop learning and asking questions because curiosity can inspire others to find out new opportunities for growth

Dexterity: The ability to handle difficult situations deftly and gracefully will assist you in inspiring your employees as they face challenges

Growth Approach: Leaders who try to inspire others consistently also create opportunities for growth

Inspirational Leadership Skills

The talent of inspiring others can be developed in a number of ways. Here are some steps to help you develop inspirational leadership skills…

Have a Clear Vision

Having a clear vision of the future of the organization is very important. Communicate this vision so that it inspires, motivates, compels and mobilizes others to achieve it. Moreover, you should also try to lead by example and practice what you preach. You cannot be an effective leader if you cannot act on your own beliefs and practices. You should lead the way and not just make long speeches.

Know Your Team

Everyone will appreciate it if you take time out to know your team members. By learning what your teammates value and how they work best, you can find better ways to inspire them. Different things inspire different people. So, understanding every team member personally may help you adjust your leadership style when working with them. When people feel understood, they become more open to guidance.

Build Up Their Trust

You must build trust among your coworkers, for you to build relationships that will support growth at an individual, as well as team, level. When they feel they can trust you, they will accept your advice. An inspirational leader you can also make an impact by mentoring others where trust is needed for them to be successful. A workplace where there is trust between coworkers is one in which they can support one another through all challenges and successes keeping their team’s best interests in mind.

Offer Ready Support

An inspirational leader offers support willingly to people before they can even ask. Providing ready support can help create a community sense and promote others to take on more ambitious tasks. By making resources available to others, you, as an inspirational leader, can inspire your workforce to take risks and advance their professional careers.

Take Responsibility

When an inspirational leader takes responsibility for the work he does, he demonstrates humility which also inspires others. People in managerial roles who show willingness to accept their weaknesses and make improvements can encourage others to follow his example. This approach also shows loyalty and dedication to the team by prioritizing shared success rather than promoting personal reputation.

Praise Good Work

Inspirational leaders always try to recognize the successes of their teams just as they take responsibility for setbacks. Great leaders do not always claim credit for a project to earn respect of others but, motivate their team more by showering praise. They never miss out on expressing appreciation when an employee does well and they give specific and positive feedback that motivates the employee and instils a feeling of pride.