I believe effective leadership starts when my team doesn’t have to wonder about these four things:

Vision: My team should never have to wonder about where we are going as an organization and how our efforts support the overall vision.

Encouragement: The individuals on my team should never have to wonder about how they are doing in their role on the team. My definition of encouragement equals straight talk when things are going well and when they’re not. They should always get honest feedback.

Empowerment: My team should never have to wonder if I trust them. I should be giving them the authority and latitude they need to make decisions and execute their job with excellence. (If I’m doing the encouragement part right this is easy.)

Being Guarded: My team should never have to wonder if I have their back. I should always be looking to protect them and address issues that need correction either one on one or in the confines of our team.