Here are more wonderful leadership hints and thoughts from one of the world’s foremost successful leaders—Elizabeth I. If you missed part 1, please take some time to go back and read it here.
–There is a big difference between constructive criticism and faultfinding. Constructive criticism is directed not at personalities but at problems, at issues. Constructive criticism addresses problems that can be corrected and to even suggest solutions.
–Each leader must be prepared to formulate strategies for dealing with the dilemma of making unpopular decisions. Elizabeth I strategy was in part her conviction she was guided and chosen by God.
–When you delegate, be prepared to back your appointee 100 percent. You must convey to them that you both understand and are willing to provide help if needed. The worst thing a leader can do is delegate assignments and then failed to back the delegatee. However if those you assigned to task are unable to complete the task, don’t play favorites. It you can’t do the job, you’ll lose the job.
–Never be afraid to explain “the why” of a task. Sometimes in explaining the why of the task, you open the floor for discussion to the validity of the task. You cannot be afraid to have the task itself question to. Doing so empowers your subordinates.