For a long time, I thought leadership meant having the answers. That belief slowed my team down.
The reality? The most capable people in your business aren’t looking for instructions. They’re looking for space to lead.
Here’s what changed in my approach:
1. Hire for potential, not just the CV
You want people who think for themselves. Fresh thinking often beats long experience when the goal is innovation.
2. Define the goal, not the steps
Set the direction, then step back. When people own the journey, they grow faster and produce better results.
3. Ask more than you tell
A simple question, “What do you think?” has opened the door to more ideas and better decisions than any instruction I’ve ever given.
4. Encourage pushback
If no one disagrees with you, you’re not getting the best out of your team. Challenge means people care enough to improve the outcome.
Here’s the catch: Many leaders think they’re empowering others. But control can be hard to let go of, even when it’s slowing things down.
Real leadership isn’t about being the expert. It’s about surrounding yourself with people who challenge your thinking and letting them lead.
What’s one way you’ve stepped back to help your team step up? – Ali Aydan
Ali Aydan: Smart People Don’t Need a Boss, They Need a Platform
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