You may be the boss, but that doesn’t mean a thing if you don’t have a successful team. Your leadership efficiency is determined by how well your team performs and the relationship you build with them. So, just step down that high horse you may be on.

If your team doesn’t do a good job, that’s on you as their leader. If your team fails, consider it your failure. But, if your team succeeds, of course that reflects well on you as their leader, and yet ultimately it’s because of their own efforts! Be proud of your team’s achievements! But, don’t bask in the glory of their success. Don’t take the credit. Make sure to give your team the credit they deserve for a job well done and let your leaders know of your team’s achievements as well.

How does one cultivate an efficient team? It takes time and effort. One of the key points is for you to stop and listen when a team member tries to share his or her suggestions on a project. And when you do, pay close attention about what they are trying to explain. Don’t just nod and brush them off thinking “I know what I’m doing, I’m the boss.” If you think you know what’s right. Or, even worse, if you have the mentality of “it’s my way or the highway” you are on the wrong path as a leader. You will miss out on potential opportunities to improve your processes and increase production. At the same time, you’ll ruin your team’s morale and their sense of feeling heard and valued.

So, the bottom line is…pay attention and listen! Most importantly, step down your high horse, because it’s not all about YOU, but it’s all about your TEAM and their success.