Are you Great Leader? These 3 Bad Habits Might Prove Otherwise
Sivakumar Palaniappan, CSP
Transforming Leaders ?? Boosting Execution Excellence ?? Building Leadership Mindsets ?? Driving Organisational Growth ?? Inspiring Action, Creating Impact! ?? CSP - Certified Speaking Professional ??
I recently got into a coaching assignment with a Manager, freshly promoted due to his exceptional technical skills.
He assumed he could naturally inspire and guide his team without additional effort. He believed that his success in previous roles as an Engineer and a Tech Lead would seamlessly translate into leadership success.
However, he soon noticed that his team was disengaged and unmotivated. Deadlines were missed, and the quality of work declined. It became evident that while he was an excellent individual contributor, leadership required a different set of skills
Most managers think they’re natural leaders. But they aren't.
But true leadership isn’t defined by job titles or years of experience; it’s defined by the impact you have on your team. If you’re a leader, your presence should motivate and inspire.
But if you’re met with tension, frustration, or disengagement, your leadership style might need a closer look.
Your habits as a manager don’t just affect you - they shape the entire team dynamic, influencing morale, productivity, and even turnover.
Here are three common habits that can undermine your leadership and damage your team’s well-being:
1. Micromanaging Every Detail
Micromanaging kills creativity and autonomy.
When employees feel they have no room to make decisions, they become disengaged and stop taking initiative. Great leaders set clear expectations and trust their team to deliver. Instead of hovering, empower employees to own their roles, build confidence, and thrive in their responsibilities.
2. Inconsistent Communication
Poor communication creates confusion and frustration.
Managers who don’t communicate expectations, provide feedback, or check in regularly leave their teams feeling unsupported. Good communication isn’t just about being available; it’s about actively guiding and aligning your team with the broader vision. Make communication a two-way street, fostering openness and clarity.
2. Lack of Recognition and Appreciation
Recognition is one of the most powerful motivators, yet it’s often overlooked.
When managers fail to acknowledge hard work, employees feel undervalued and disconnected. A simple “thank you” or "appreciate you" or public recognition of achievements can go a long way in boosting morale and loyalty. Show appreciation regularly, and watch engagement rise.
If you notice any of these habits in your management style, it’s not too late to change.
True leaders focus on creating a positive, empowering environment for their teams. Take the time to build trust, value your team’s efforts, and communicate openly.
After all, leadership isn’t about you - it’s about the success and growth of the people you lead.
Do you agree these are three word habits? How often do you see these in some of your managers? Write your experiences as comments below. ??????
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2 周Sivakumar Palaniappan, CSP Long ago, during my MBA days, I read a book named "One Minute Manager" & that was perfect for addressing these issues. One minute goal. One minute appreciation. One minute reprimand / redirect. So... No micromanagement. Being seen, heard and appreciated. Reduce chances of miscommunication.
I help Businesses Achieve Sustainable Growth | Consulting, Exec. Development & Coaching | 45+ Years | CEO @ S4E | Building M.E., AP & Sth Asia | Best-selling Author, Speaker & Awarded Leader
2 周Absolutely! Leadership is all about leaving a positive mark on others, helping them grow, and guiding them to reach their potential.
I build robust Quality assurance system to achieve Growth, Profit and Sustainability.
2 周Yes true , most important appreciation , many leaders forget to appreciate team members in their busy schedule or overlook
Create a “Customer-centric” culture to shape the organization future | CX TRANSFORMATION LEADER | MENTOR | CX PRACTITIONER
2 周Sivakumar Palaniappan, CSP Rightly indicated 3 points. Lack of training is one of the reasons. Secondly, the manager mentor does not provide them with proper guidance. They might have 3 bad habits because of this.