The Guide to Being a Leader People Actually Want to Follow

Why do you want to be a remarkable leader? For the title? The prestige? Or maybe the rush of calling the shots? If that’s it, forget it. Leadership isn’t about feeding your ego; it’s about genuinely impacting your team. If you’re not in it to elevate others, please, just don’t bother.

Here’s the deal: a real leader knows that it’s not about hierarchy. Drop the “little guy” mindset—everyone on your team is a critical piece of the puzzle. Leading is about bringing out the best in each individual. It’s about setting the bar, voicing hard truths, and making sure every voice matters.

Motivation 101: You’re Not Leading 'Robots'

If you think your job as a leader is to simply dish out tasks and watch productivity go up, you’re plain wrong. Every person on your team is different, with unique drivers and motivations. Get to know what makes them tick, not just what they produce. The best leaders tap into each person’s goals and strengths, pushing them toward growth and achievement—not burnout.

The truth? Motivation is personal, and it’s on you to find out what drives your team members. Take the time to understand their career goals, interests, and what lights them up. And here’s a tip: a quick pat on the back isn’t enough. Be specific. Recognition is about making people feel seen and valued, not just slapping a “good job” sticker on them.

Cut the Corporate Chat and Talk Like a Human

Let’s talk communication. If you’re hiding behind corporate jargon or trying to sound like some kind of motivational poster, stop. People see through that nonsense. Honest, clear communication is what builds trust. Admit when you’re wrong, be upfront with feedback, and don’t sugarcoat the hard stuff. Your team deserves authenticity, not a PR script.

And remember, communication is a two-way street. It’s not just about delivering your message; it’s about genuinely listening. If you’re leading a meeting, watch their reactions. Are they nodding along? Do they look confused? Pay attention. A great leader knows how to adjust on the fly, reading the room and making sure everyone is on the same page.

Curiosity Is Key—Yes, Even for Leaders

Curiosity isn’t just for kids. If you’re not asking questions and challenging your own assumptions, you’re failing. Good leaders aren’t know-it-alls; they’re lifelong learners. Stay curious about your industry, your team, and even yourself. When you’re curious, you’re constantly evolving, and your team feels that energy. Encourage questions, create learning opportunities, and show your team that growth isn’t just a phase—it's a daily practice.

Build Trust or Bust

If your team doesn’t trust you, do me a favor, and plan your exit now. Psychological safety isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential. Your people need to feel safe admitting mistakes, asking questions, and pushing back. Trust doesn’t come from avoiding conflict—it comes from handling it with respect and honesty. Consistency, fairness, and follow-through are what build that trust. If you’re not committed to these principles, don’t be surprised when your team starts disengaging.

A Real Leader Knows It’s Not About Them

The best leaders don’t make it about themselves; they’re focused on lifting others up. This isn’t about racking up personal achievements—it’s about building something bigger than yourself. The real reward is seeing your team succeed, watching them grow, and knowing you helped them get there. That’s the legacy worth leaving.

In the end, remarkable leadership isn’t about titles or authority. It’s about creating a culture of respect, trust, and growth. Be the leader who listens, who challenges, and who isn’t afraid to be real. And remember, your team’s success is your success—invest in them, and you’ll all come out stronger.