Leadership is essential for your MSP company. The vast majority of leaders are either results- or relationship-driven. However, the best leaders understand that it is more useful to be somewhere in the middle than on one side or another. Recognizing this critical balance can help you build relations with each employee throughout the company while also substantially improving productivity. Here are just a few more ways that you can develop a balanced leadership style:
Get to Know Your Employees
The first step in striking the right balance in leadership styles is to understand each employee. Some employees are more relationship-driven, while others are motivated by reaching deadlines or completing projects. The key to a successful business is to understand both of these styles of management and have the flexibility to adapt to each employee. Over time, you will understand the personalities of each employee and develop a balanced leadership style that brings out the best in everyone.
Understand Results-Driven Employees
A results-driven employee wants to work with a manager that has a plan and will always stay on course. Getting things done and following through with projects are essential characteristics for any employee with this type of mindset. Catering your leadership styles to meet the needs of these employees can help you increase production and enable them to work more efficiently. Of course, it is critical to remain flexible, as not every employee has the same results-driven mindset.
Understand Relationship-Driven Employees
On the other hand, a relationship-driven employee is the exact opposite of a results-driven employee, as he/she primarily focuses on interacting with employees and building relationships. These types of employees desire that you communicate with them on a personal level and that you take an interest in their personal life. Instead of focusing on the end result, managing the emotions of these employees is more effective in helping them reach their full potential.
Combine Both Leadership Styles
Both of these leadership styles can play a pivotal role in motivating employees, so it is essential to strike a balance for maximum results. Every employee in your MSP company is different; understanding the best ways to motivate them can substantially increase productivity and create a more relaxed work environment. The ability to adapt to the unique needs of each worker will give you a competitive advantage over other MSPs that are not willing to change their philosophy to better suit the needs of each employee.
A balanced leadership style is an excellent way for your MSP company to experience the best of both worlds and help each of your employees reach their utmost potential. Instead of being primarily relationship- or results-driven, a balanced leadership style can help you develop chemistry within the workplace and allow employees to work more effectively. Continually practicing this effective leadership style can help you relate to each employee and enable your IT company to experience new levels of success.
