Corporate psychologist outlines recommendations for leaders who have faced criticism over the past year
Leaders across Australia are advised to make changes to their habits amid criticism that they lack compassion for employees, according to a corporate psychologist.
Rudy Crous, corporate psychologist and Compono CEO, said starting these changes earlier in the year can make them much easier to reinforce.
"The early weeks of the year are when leadership habits are formed or reinforced. While behaviours can absolutely be changed with the right awareness and support, it becomes much easier when leaders act early," Crous said in a statement.
"Small adjustments now can make a big difference to how the year unfolds."
Bad leadership
Crous issued the advice as data from Compono's survey last year revealed that 75% of bad leadership in Australia had not significantly improved even after concerns were raised.
Poor leadership was more commonly observed in the office or corporate world (39%), followed by retail and hospitality (20%), according to the report.
Some 21% of employees said their bosses lack compassion, such as by denying sick leave, carer's leave, and flexibility. Another 10% said their leaders lack training and support, while 10% said bullying was a problem.
"What employees are really looking for is flexibility, understanding, and clear support. Responding well to support requests strengthens trust and engagement rather than eroding it," Crous said.
How to be a better leader
Crous attributed poor leadership to organisations' assumptions that people with technical or strategic thinking skills will naturally excel in the human side of leadership.
He also pointed out that leaders tend to default to control instead of trust when they are under pressure.
"With the right tools, role clarity, and support, leaders can develop the skills they need to lead more effectively," he said.
Some of his recommendations to improve leadership style include:
- Clarify expectations early so every team member understands their role.
- Identify your "personality traits" and those of your team so you can adapt your leadership and communication style and ensure everyone can work to their strengths.
- Provide development opportunities for all managers and high-potential staff before small challenges grow into bigger issues.
"Good leadership is about being intentional. If you know your personality type you can be more intentional about how you engage, what you focus on, the tone you set, and results you drive," Crous said.
