Does Your Leadership Style Scare Your Employees?

Most of us have experienced the misery of working for a boss who intimidates employees while charming their superiors and customers. But it’s hard to figure out if you may be that kind of boss. You may think you are doing a good job, getting results by pushing people past their comfort zones, but what if they experience it as being afraid of you? To ensure your people don’t experience any unnecessary trepidation around you, start by reflecting on your behavior. Do you treat your team members with the courtesy you give to customers, or do you take them for granted? Then ask them open-ended questions about the company culture. You may say, “I’m interested in creating a team culture that’s free of fear. What advice do you have for me, and what have I been missing?” Check whether you are projecting your fears onto your team. Move from correcting activities to connecting ones. And show vulnerability: Let your team know when you have made a mistake.