Some of the top organizational leadership skills include:
The ability to communicate a mission. Most organizational leaders feel passionate about the mission of their company. Communicating that mission in a way that incites passion within others is even more critical. The best organizational leaders do a great job of “firing up the troops,” so to speak, with their charisma and enthusiasm.
Strategic planning. A mission means nothing without a strategy behind it. Good organizational leadership requires being not only a visionary, but also a sound strategist. Setting forth the strategic vision is key to helping others get on board.
Goal implementation. Once there’s a vision and a strategy, there must be specific goals. Setting goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time bound (“SMART” goals) will make it very clear how teams can help the organization fulfill its mission.
Resiliency through challenges. The only certain thing in an organization’s evolution is that things are never certain. Challenges will come. Change is constant. Good organizational leaders are skilled at never losing sight of the organization’s vision. They focus on the important aspects and don’t get caught in minutiae that distracts from the overall organizational mission.
Innovation. The speed of innovation in today’s work environment is dizzying. Organizations that fail to innovate will be left behind. Effective organizational leadership means a continual focus on improvement and proactive progression.
Communication. One of the greatest threats to an organizational leader’s success is poor communication. Organizational leaders must be clear and specific in their digital and interpersonal communication, focusing on accuracy and clarity. Candor is key, but using tact is also important so that contributors feel valued while knowing exactly what expectations and next steps are.
Motivation. Teach them the mission, give them some basic direction, and let them go. Continued feedback on what is and isn’t going well will help departments stay motivated. Giving praise and offering incentives can also be great ways to motivate and keep morale high.
Calmness and clarity with stakeholders. Leaders have the difficult task of dealing with many stakeholders. Whether inside or outside the organization, these key players can ask very direct and even potentially inflammatory questions. Organization leaders should be comfortable always staying calm and providing accurate and positive answers, even in hostile environments.