Understanding the Signs That Employees Appreciate Your Leadership
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Recognizing Employee Trust
No one typically volunteers that they appreciate your leadership, which can make it challenging to gauge your effectiveness.
A colleague once remarked, "There's no way I'm opening that can of worms!" when I inquired why she didn’t approach her supervisor about a customer issue. She shared that her boss tended to amplify problems rather than resolve them, leading her to distrust his ability to manage the situation.
When team members bring their challenges to you, it's often a sign of their trust, respect, and fondness for your leadership. As General Colin Powell aptly noted:
> "Leadership is solving problems. The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you have stopped leading them."
If they cease to approach you with issues, it may indicate a loss of confidence in your ability to assist or a belief that you don't care—both of which reflect poor leadership.
This doesn’t imply that you haven’t empowered them to address issues independently; rather, it signifies that they recognize your capability to help with the problems they cannot resolve alone.
Having spent 25 years studying and practicing leadership across military, corporate, and volunteer sectors, I've identified several indicators that reveal if your team values you as their boss.
Section 1.1 Bringing Problems to You
They bring you problems.
Employees tend to trust leaders who can handle their concerns. If they perceive you as someone who complicates issues instead of providing solutions, they'll be hesitant to seek your guidance. Encourage your team to approach you with challenges by ensuring that you remain calm and constructive in your responses. Instead of saying, "Bring me solutions, not problems," embrace a mindset of collaboration: "Bring me problems, and together we’ll find solutions." — Max Klein
They feel comfortable not bringing you issues.
Conversely, when employees feel empowered, they will attempt to resolve most challenges on their own. This demonstrates that they trust your leadership. The best supervisors grant autonomy while being readily available to assist when needed. As Mike Abrashoff stated: "I don't want an organization of order-takers because order-takers don't take responsibility for results."
Video Description: Learn how to decode your boss's personality and understand their perspective, which can enhance your working relationship.
Section 1.2 Sharing Personal Details
They disclose personal information.
If team members willingly share details about their lives outside of work, it’s a good indication that they appreciate your leadership. Those who dislike their supervisors tend to keep such conversations at bay. While some may choose to separate their personal and professional lives, openness often signifies a positive rapport.
They express disagreement.
In a healthy team culture, employees shouldn't fear voicing their opinions, even when they differ from yours. If you foster an environment where disagreement is welcomed, they will feel valued and engaged. As Warren Bennis said: "Followers who tell the truth, and leaders who listen to it, are an unbeatable combination."
Video Description: Explore how your boss perceives you and what that means for your career advancement.
Chapter 2 Additional Signs of Leadership Appreciation
They go above and beyond.
While some individuals may perform due to a strong work ethic regardless of leadership quality, many are motivated to excel when they respect and like their boss. If your team consistently puts in extra effort, it’s a strong signal that they appreciate your guidance.
They contribute innovative ideas.
When employees know their suggestions are valued, they are more likely to share them. Even if you cannot implement every idea, listening attentively fosters a supportive atmosphere. As Robert I. Sutton pointed out: "Listen to those under your supervision. Really listen."
They move past contrarianism.
It's common for new leaders to encounter skepticism from certain employees. This is a natural phase where they assess your trustworthiness. By maintaining composure and consistency, you can win over these doubters, who may eventually become some of your strongest supporters. Max Klein emphasizes that "some of your biggest detractors can become your biggest supporters."
They take initiative.
Effective leaders cultivate other leaders. If team members feel empowered to lead projects and make decisions, it indicates that they respect your authority while embracing their roles. Recognizing and celebrating such behavior demonstrates your effectiveness as a leader.
They show you respect.
Respect and likability are closely intertwined in leadership. While respect is paramount, being likable enhances your ability to achieve long-term goals. This doesn't mean compromising on standards; rather, it involves ensuring that your tough decisions are rooted in care for your team and the mission.
Conclusion
A final sign of appreciation is when team members speak positively about you to others, regardless of whether they think you’ll find out. Remember, humor and a sense of reciprocity can enhance your likability. After all, "There is little success where there is little laughter." — Andrew Carnegie
While it can be challenging to determine if your team values you as a leader, your concern for their perceptions is a positive step toward successful leadership. Keep striving for excellence!