Here are 10 Common Mistakes Team Leaders Make:
1: They do not Lead by Example. The first step to leadership is to lead by example. When not done, credibility disappears. If you cannot lead yourself, who will want to follow you?
2: Positional Leadership Mindset. Being named a “Captain“ only means you have a title. It does not mean you are a Leader. It does not mean people have to follow you. Don’t think that your job is over when you earn this position. It is just beginning. Leadership is earned. Every Day.
3: Gossip. As a leader, you are responsible for leading ALL players on your team. Don’t be a gossip. You will lose the credibility of your teammates. You will lose the trust of your teammates. If he gossips about them, will he gossip about me?
4: Lack of Follow-Through. Leadership is about trust. Can your teammates trust you to do what you say? Actions always speak louder than words. – You must follow through. – You must do what you say. – You must earn Trust.
5: Inconsistent Leadership. As a leader, you don’t get to choose the times you want to lead. Leadership is a lifestyle. You cannot lead only during practice or only during the in-season. Consistent leadership creates Confidence in your team.
6: Fixed Mindset. Team leaders cannot have a “fixed” mindset. They must have a “growth” mindset. Leaders have to believe that the team/individual can improve and grow each day.
7: Not Confronting Issues. Leaders need to be junior firefighters. They have to put out the small fires that happen behind the scenes. They must uphold the standards and culture of the team. If not, the small fires can turn into an inferno for the team.
8: Failure to hold others accountable. Accountability is hard for team leaders. Accountability is necessary for successful TEAMS. Do the right thing. Even if it is hard.
9: Trying to Make Everyone Happy. If you are trying to make others happy, you will: – Not earn the respect of your team – Always be stressed – Fail Act on principle, standards, and integrity. Have confidence you are making the right decision for your team.
10: Not being a Gatekeeper of the Culture. Finally, team leaders are the gatekeepers of the TEAM and PROGRAM Culture. – Culture is what you allow – Culture is what you emphasize – Culture is every day. Failure to be a Gatekeeper of the team culture erodes a Team and a Program.