When it comes to being a leader in a digital world, it helps to put yourself in the role of a learner now and then, since the pace of change is so rapid. If your company is struggling to adapt business leadership styles to this modern age, here are several things that you need to know.
Remote Leadership Communications are Different
According to a recent effective leadership survey, 74% of managers believe that effective communication is a key component to their leadership. Unfortunately, just 29% of those surveyed feel that they are effective communicators, and the growth of remote leadership isn’t helping matters. Misunderstandings in email exchanges occur, and there is a lack of informal encounters that often create an important bond. For organizations that rely heavily on digital communications for leadership and management, some experts recommend training managers in how to effectively use digital communications in leading and managing people. In the end, the more direct and face-to-face meetings that can be arranged, the better.
Lack of Employee Engagement Will Cost You
According to a Gallup Poll on employee engagement, a staggering 70% of employees in the U.S. aren’t working to their full potential. This lack of engagement at work is costing the economy upwards of $450 billion in lost productivity annually. For those worried about effective business leadership, these numbers should be a wake-up call. Some of the recommendations directly from Gallup include finding ways to better communicate with employees and engage their particular talents.
Teambuilding and Collaboration Are Essential
Not enough can be said about the importance of engaging employees in an increasingly competitive market. One of the best ways to accomplish this is through team building and collaboration with Unified Communications. Getting employees to work together on projects as a team fosters a sense of accomplishment and loyalty to the organization. Some companies are using what is called gamification which is the application of either game playing or game-design elements to encourage productivity, collaboration, and engagement. When done properly, these have been game-changers (pun intended) for many organizations.
Business Leadership Must Adapt to the Digital Age
You’ve probably learned about various leadership styles over the years. Unfortunately, not all of those styles are effective in our new digital age, and some of us will be asked to adapt. The autocratic commander might be considered a thing of the past, while those leaders who take on the role of co-creator and collaborator will garner both a better reception and more loyalty. Those leaders who are willing to adapt to this new environment are the ones who will start to see results.
There is little doubt that the world is changing. Consumer preferences are evolving but so is the way that we work and run our businesses. Successfully leading in a digital age requires a shift in both attitudes and business leadership strategies. The good news is that strong teams and thriving businesses will continue to emerge.
Sources: Broadsoft, Gallup, Ketchum
