Why People Really Leave: It’s About Leadership, Not Just the Job
Yep!
Great leaders bring out the best in their teams. They spot potential we often can’t see in ourselves and help us grow into it. They set big goals and inspire us to reach them.
When I ask people about the best and worst leaders they’ve had, it’s never about intelligence, charm, or other fixed traits. Instead, it’s actually about qualities a leader can control, the human skills that we can master; passion, honesty, and insight. The human side of work.
1. They Take Accountability
When things go wrong, bad leaders point fingers. Good ones own it. They see the team’s failure as their own and work fast to fix it without blaming others.
Avoiding straight answers or muddying the waters only creates confusion. Great leaders say what they mean, plainly and clearly.
Bad leaders see teams as reflections of themselves. You do well, they look good; you mess up, they look bad. Great leaders see people as humans, with struggles and strengths, and treat them accordingly.
Work isn’t everything. Good leaders never forget that their teams have lives beyond the office and respect boundaries unless there’s a serious reason otherwise.
If you think praising someone for doing their job is unnecessary, think again. Great leaders spot wins, big or small, and celebrate them, because feeling valued matters.
Some bosses think the work is just part of the deal. Great leaders appreciate the effort and say thanks, knowing people put more than time into their work.
Bad leaders hire solely on credentials and skills, ignoring team fit. Good leaders know every new team member affects the whole crew (and culture), so they choose people who bring more than just technical ability.
A good leader doesn’t act like their time is worth more than yours. They show up on time, come prepared, and keep meetings focused, no time wasted.
Some bosses treat information like a secret weapon. The truth is, sharing info gives your team power. It doesn’t take away from your strength either. A great leader keeps their team in the loop to help them make smarter decisions.
Ever notice some managers seem to produce a string of promotions from their team? That’s no accident. Great leaders push their teams to grow, coach their strengths, and get them ready for the next challenge.
If your team wouldn’t describe you like this, you might need to develop your own human skills. If you think that people are easily replaceable, think again, it’s also lost engagement and potential.
Dr. Travis Bradberry, points out that Emotional Intelligence skills are practical tools for handling feedback, managing change, and navigating tough conversations. Get those right, and you’re well on your way to creating a workplace where people want to stay and grow.
What’s your take? Have you had a boss who made you want to quit or one who made you stay, grow, and stick around?
Do you have more current and relevant research on this topic? Or maybe you’ve got your own experiences. We’ d love to hear your thoughts on leadership that focuses on the human side of work.
Check out our upcoming free MASTERCLASSES that focus on how to Feel Good at Work, how to work Better Together, Talk Smart (communication techniques), Mission Control (leadership techniques), Essential Human Skills, and how to Tame Your Time.
If you want to improve your behavioural skills and master the human side of work, book your free strategy session here.
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