10 Traits of an Abusive Leader

I’ve been on Facebook now for about five months. I’m liking it because it’s really giving me the opportunity to connect with even more like-minded people.

One of those people is Regina Baker, co-host of Careers from the Kitchen Table on CNN 650 Radio. Regina shared the following quote which inspired this post:

"You do not lead by hitting people over the head. That's assault, not leadership." ~ Dwight D. Eisenhower

No matter if you’re an entrepreneur, President of an association, or a shift leader at a fast food joint, leadership skills are critical to your success. The things you do – or don’t do not only impact you, it also impacts those who look to you for guidance and mentorship.

Take a look at these 10 questions. If you lead in any capacity, sit down and answer each one truthfully. If you answer “No” to more than 3, you may want to question your motives as commander in chief. If you’re being led by someone else, evaluate your leader and 3 “No’s” should have you wondering if the leadership style is self-centered and toxic:

1. Are the leader’s comments/suggestions biased and disquised as “orders” or mandates to further advance his or her own goals/purpose?

2. Is the leader building confidence or using intimidation/fear-based tactics?

3. Is the leader encouraging you to take risks to help you grow?

4. Does the leader describe/view themselves as part of the team or put themselves above the team?

5. Does the leader create opportunities for others?

6. Does the leader do anything other than delegate and make decisions?

7. Does the leader push you to take actions that drive results?

8. Does the leader hold you accountable?

9. Is the leader open to receiving constructive criticism or only giving it?

10. Does the leader value your opinions and perspective (even if different from their own) or assert too much control by telling you what to think?

The more in tune you are to leadership best practices, the easier it will be to find those who are trustworthy, optimistic, and offer unconditional support. You’ll know you’re in the right place when the leader does what they say they’ll do. They’ll offer an environment built on fairness and encourage you to work cohesively with others on the team. He or she will celebrate your successes by recognizing, rewarding, and praising your contributions and efforts.

Most importantly, they will lead by example.

Photo credit: lumaxart