Leadership is defined as the ability of an individual, group, or organization to lead, influence, or guide other individuals, teams, or entire organizations. As a professional in the youth sports industry it is important to have leadership skills to help you manage your programs and all the moving parts that come along with it. In order to be a great manager, you have to be a leader first. Here are 15 qualities of effective leadership:
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- Lead by Example and Garner Credibility
No job should be too big or too small, regardless of what position you hold. Leaders gain credibility and team members’ trust by doing what they say they will do, holding themselves accountable for their words and actions, and putting the needs of the team before their own. - Communicate Effectively
Great communication skills will show you are organized and can be relied upon to facilitate needed information with your staff, volunteers and participants. - Focus on Team Development
Training, education, mentoring, and building a cohesive group will be things your staff and volunteers are going to look to get from you. The better mentor you can be, the more inspired your team will be, the more they will trust you, and the more satisfied they will be with the overall running of your program or organization. Provide the tools your team members need to succeed and empower them to do great things within your programs. - Prioritize Personal Development
Taking advantage of educational opportunities, pursuing degrees and certifications, networking, and keeping up with industry standards are all things that leaders in the industry should be doing. All leaders are knowledgeable in their fields and inspire to learn more. - Create a Vision
The best leaders have a plan or a vision, set goals, and always have a path forward. When making large scale decisions, leaders think strategically to figure out not only what the best options are for now, but how it impacts the future as well. - Build Relationships
As a leader it is important to build relationships both internally and externally with your staff and co-workers, volunteers, participants, and other industry professionals. - Be an Active Listener
Your team and your participants are the lifelines of your program. Great leaders get feedback and learn from others around them while putting those words into action. - Be an Innovator and Change Agent
We have always heard of the terms “if it’s not broke don’t fix it” or “it has always been that way”. Don’t be afraid of change. Most the time, you don’t have to change every single thing, just build on the foundations that were set before you and make it better. - Passion
To be a leader you have to be passionate in what you are doing or it may not translate to the team members you are trying to lead. As you create your path in the youth sports industry try to focus on the things you enjoy and build on that to keep your passion and drive going as you progress. - Problem Solver
Many times leaders and those in management positions have to spend a portion of their time solving problems or “putting out fires” that come up around them. Don’t get overwhelmed and don’t feel like you have to be the sole decision maker each and every time. Many times it’s best to garner the team to find the solutions that work best for all. - Show Respect and Empathy
Leaders care about others and can relate to them. Both respect and care are needed for building trust and empowerment on your team and with your participants. Without that personal connection, guidance can feel more like a directive. - Positive Attitude
Leaders think positively even in the most dire scenarios and should always try to be optimistic as opposed to pessimistic. - Responsibility
Leaders are not afraid to take on responsibility and thrive when new challenges are presented. - Time Management and Self Discipline
Leaders can plan a path for themselves personally and professionally. Whether daily, weekly, or longer term, a great leader is extremely organized and can see what’s ahead to always navigate a path forward. - Recognize Success
Recognizing the achievements of your team or participants either as an individual or group is one of the best leadership traits you can have. Find ways to celebrate success, even if it’s just a minor achievement for a job well done.
As you progress in the industry, those around you will look to you for your leadership with every advancement you make within your profession. So how do you become a great leader? It won’t happen overnight and takes time to be great. Some traits and characteristics of a great leader will come easier to some than others. Don’t take on too much at once and try different things to perfect your craft and leadership style. Put the time, effort, and focus necessary to become a great leader and it will take you, your programs, and your organization to the next level!
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