You deserve to enjoy the benefits that come with being a leader. But sometimes it’s difficult to live up to the expectations of others, and the reality is that sometimes you’ll make mistakes and it’s ok to make mistakes. It’s how you respond when you do make mistakes that sets you apart as a leader.

As a leader, your mistakes can result in losing the trust of your team. If you use the right strategies to fix your mistakes, recovering from your leadership mistakes becomes much easier.

Consider these leadership mistakes and how to fix them:

1. Arrogance-Ignoring the opinions of others. It’s true that you got into that leadership position by displaying admirable traits. Avoid forgetting those that helped you along the way. It’s important to value the opinions and ideas of those who supported you when you have the opportunity to lead.

• Ask for ideas even when they’re not needed. As a leader, showing continued belief in the team makes it easier to gain and keep their trust.
• Even if an idea isn’t popular or feasible, thank the team members for their input. Remind them that one idea sparks more ideas.

2. The Bus Keeps Moving-Feeling indispensable. Now that you’ve gotten to the top, it’s easy to start feeling indispensable. However, avoid getting into that mode as much as possible. Remember you weren’t the first and you certainly won’t be the last person in your position!

• Remember how you got there in the first place.
• Pay attention to your performance metrics. What’s required for you to maintain your position?

3. Communication is Key-Lack of communication. Keeping the lines of communication open and encouraging open communication are the best ways to lead effectively. All persons on your team need to hear from you. 

• Regardless of whether the feedback is positive or negative, keep your team members engaged and informed.
• Schedule regular meetings with your team. Avoid having meetings only when there’s an issue at hand. Team members like to feel connected with what’s going on.
• Foster an environment where your team members feel comfortable approaching you. Allow them to feel like you want to hear from them.

4. Pour Greatness in those you Serve & Lead-Sidestepping recognition. Remember that your team is as strong as its weakest link. It’s extremely important to recognize the input of each team member. This is the best way to ensure commitment and dedication to you as their leader.

• Yes, you enjoy the recognition garnered from leading a successful team. But it’s absolutely important to share that recognition with the team members.
• Provide individual recognition for a job well done.
• Use a group forum to recognize the contributions of specific team members. This allows them to feel worthwhile and gain the respect of their peers.

5. Leadership is Tough-Ignoring difficult responsibilities. Leadership isn’t going to be rosy all the time. There are difficulties that you may have to face from time to time. The worst thing you can do is shy away from the tough decisions and responsibilities. Put on a brave face and show why you were chosen to lead them in the first place.

• Do you need to reprimand someone? Avoid putting it off. Get right to it and remind the person of your expectations.
• You were put in that leadership role for a reason. Always keep that reason at the forefront of your mind. Live up to the expectations of others and do what’s expected.

If this is your first leadership role, you’ll realize it’s a work in progress. No two days are the same. And each experience requires a different approach. Avoid these leadership mistakes and adhere to the fixes. That way, you can adequately equip yourself to lead successfully.