How to become a good leader: 19 secrets to becoming an outstanding leader.

Great leaders are not just those who make the right decisions, but also those who know how to inspire, build trust, and lead their teams to success. While each person has their own leadership style, outstanding leaders share several core qualities – from the ability to listen and strategic thinking to perseverance and a continuous learning spirit.

This article will help you discover 19 ways to become a better leader , build credibility with your team, and maximize your leadership skills. Whether you're a new manager or a seasoned entrepreneur, these tips will help you grow sustainably and achieve real impact in your work.

The secret to becoming a better leader.

A good leader not only knows how to direct, but also knows how to understand and support their team . According to business communication expert Jule Kim, to become a trustworthy leader, you need to cultivate the following core qualities:

• Show genuine concern : Take the time to listen to and understand the circumstances and desires of each team member. When employees feel cared for, they will contribute more.

• Dare to face difficult conversations : A strong leader doesn't shy away from conflict or sensitive issues. Communicate openly but respectfully, helping the team work towards a common goal.

• Provide opportunities for growth : Support employees in learning, challenging themselves, and taking on new roles. Their growth is your success.

• Listen to honest feedback : Don't just talk, listen. Encourage your team to share their opinions honestly so you can improve together.

• Be firm and clear in your decisions : A trustworthy leader must dare to take responsibility. When making decisions, be concise, consistent, and stand your ground.

These principles will not only help you become a great leader , but also an inspiring and trustworthy figure in any work environment.

Part 1: Leadership Qualities: How to Cultivate Them for Success

Secret 1: Understand yourself to cultivate self-awareness.

A good leader not only understands their team, but also understands themselves . When you know who you are, your strengths and weaknesses, you can easily adjust your leadership style to be more suitable and effective.

• Self-reflection : Take time to reflect on your abilities, habits, values, and what you truly want. Ask yourself: “What type of leader am I? What do I need to improve to progress?”

• Identifying the influence of personality : Every trait you possess impacts how your team reacts. Understanding this helps you adjust your behavior and communication accordingly.

• Practical example :

  • If you usually give feedback directly , learn how to respond in a more constructive way so that employees don't feel criticized.

  • If you're good at organizing and planning , leverage that strength to create detailed plans, internal newsletters, or checklists to help your team stay informed.

Self-awareness is the foundation for leading with understanding, not power – and that's what truly earns you respect from others.

Tip 2: Be confident even when you don't have all the answers.

Confidence doesn't come from knowing everything, but from how you demonstrate composure and attitude when faced with uncertain situations . A trusted leader is someone who dares to admit their lack of knowledge while maintaining a steady and professional demeanor.

• Maintain a confident demeanor : Always stand tall, maintain eye contact, speak clearly and coherently, and use decisive hand gestures to emphasize your message. A confident attitude helps others trust you and makes them more likely to follow your lead.

• Acknowledge your limitations : No one knows everything. Not having all the answers doesn't make you incompetent; on the contrary, honesty and a willingness to learn demonstrate the strength of a true leader.

• Avoid complacency : Distinguish clearly between confidence and arrogance. Don't try to act like a know-it-all or dismiss the opinions of others – that will only diminish your credibility.

• A tactful way to respond : Instead of saying "I don't know" awkwardly, say:

  "I don't have an answer right now, but I'll look into it and get back to you."
  Maintaining a steady posture and making eye contact with the person you're speaking to demonstrates calm confidence without being ostentatious.

A good leader is someone who makes their team feel secure, even when there's no solution yet. Appropriate self-confidence is the foundation of collective trust.

Secret 3: Continuously learn to become an expert in your field.

A good leader always understands the value of knowledge and a deep understanding of the industry they are leading . When you have solid knowledge, you not only become more confident but also build strong trust from your team.

• Enhance your professional knowledge : Take advantage of every opportunity to learn – attend seminars, read professional books, stay updated on new trends, and learn from real-world experience. Understanding helps you make quicker, more accurate, and more persuasive decisions.

• Become a leader through expertise : Your team will respect you when you speak from real experience, not just your title. Be the person people turn to for advice or guidance.

• Continuously broaden your horizons : Don't limit yourself to your current field. Learning more outside your area of ​​expertise will give you a more multifaceted and creative perspective when solving problems.

  • For example, a technical team leader should have a thorough understanding of the product they are developing, regularly update their knowledge of new technologies, and attend professional conferences.

  • Alternatively, a principal could research educational technology further to help teachers apply digital tools more effectively in the classroom.

• Maintain a lifelong learning mindset : The world is constantly changing – only leaders who continuously learn can adapt, innovate, and lead sustainably.

Knowledge is the foundation of confidence and credibility. The deeper your understanding, the better you can lead – because no one can inspire others with an empty head.

Tip 4: Find a mentor to learn from and grow with.

No matter how high your leadership position, there's always room for growth . An experienced mentor can help you broaden your perspective, refine your skills, and avoid the mistakes they've made.

• Choose someone you truly admire : Find someone with leadership qualities you want to emulate – perhaps a former boss, a successful entrepreneur, or an influential mentor.

• Connect naturally : Don't hesitate to proactively invite them for coffee or lunch to chat. Show genuine interest in learning, not personal gain.

• Ask really good questions : When you meet them, you can ask:

  • "In your opinion, what is the most important quality of a good leader?"

  • "How do you earn the respect and trust of others?"

  • "What is the most difficult thing about leadership?"
    Each answer is a practical lesson that books cannot provide.

• Learn from role models who have overcome adversity : Choose people who have faced similar challenges to your goals.

  • For example, if you are a student or young employee, attend sharing sessions or events where female leaders talk about their journeys – you will learn a lot from real-life experiences.

A good mentor not only helps you progress faster, but also inspires you to become the best version of yourself as a leader.

Tip 5: Learn how to handle conflict wisely and fairly.

Conflict at work is inevitable, but how you handle it is what truly demonstrates leadership . A good leader knows how to listen, remain calm, and find a compromise solution instead of taking sides.

• Maintain a neutral and calm attitude : When conflicts arise between members, don't rush to judge or take sides. Listen to both sides to understand the root cause of the problem.

• Focus on solutions, not blame : After listening, open a joint discussion to find a mutually beneficial solution. The goal isn't about "who's right, who's wrong," but how to get the team working effectively again .

• Practical example :

  • If you run a factory and a drawing error causes an order to be canceled, leading to a sales representative getting angry at the designer, ask both parties to calm down , emphasizing that yelling is unacceptable.

  • Next, it was suggested that a double-checking process be established to avoid similar errors, helping both sides work towards improvement goals.

• Know when to seek assistance : In a professional environment, if conflicts escalate, allow human resources (HR) to intervene to ensure fairness and adherence to procedures.

Leadership isn't about extinguishing conflicts, but about transforming them into opportunities for the team to learn and bond .

Tip 6: Maintain a positive attitude in all situations.

Positive thinking not only helps you overcome difficulties, but also spreads good energy to the entire team . An optimistic leader can transform pressure into motivation, helping the team maintain morale and work more effectively.

• Start with a positive attitude : No matter how challenging the job, choose to view the problem as a learning opportunity. When you remain calm and proactive, the team will follow suit.

• Spread positive energy to everyone : Your positivity is highly contagious. When you show belief and encouragement, employees will feel more motivated and confident in their work.

• Reducing negativity in the workplace :

  • Proactively prevent rumors, gossip, or workplace drama .

  • If someone starts gossiping, subtly redirect the conversation and show them that you don't support it.

  • Instead of letting small issues escalate into conflicts, proactively help the parties resolve them promptly and amicably.

• Maintaining emotional stability : A positive leader isn't someone who's always cheerful, but rather someone who knows how to control their emotions and prevent negativity from affecting the team .

A positive mindset not only creates a healthy work environment, but also helps you become a source of motivation and confidence for the entire team .

Part 2: How to Lead a High-Performing Team

Tip 1: Set clear rules and lead by example for the team.

A good leader not only speaks, but also acts in accordance with what they say . When you set clear principles and adhere to them yourself, the team will naturally respect and follow them.

• Define clear goals and expectations : Let your team know what you expect – in terms of performance, work attitude, or teamwork. Transparency helps everyone understand their roles and responsibilities.

• Communicate consistently : Communicate clearly, avoiding ambiguity or constantly changing requests. When you speak consistently, people will feel reassured and trust your direction.

• Lead by example : Leaders can't just give orders – you have to be the first to do it right .

  • If you want to reduce paper usage and increase recycling, let your employees see that you actually do it every day.

  • If you want more effective internal communication , proactively send messages, make phone calls, or organize regular meetings with each team member.

  • If you dislike being late, always arrive early and demonstrate punctuality in every meeting.

• Build trust through consistency : When words match actions, you're not just a rule-maker – you become a living example of team culture .

Clear principles and a spirit of exemplary leadership are the foundation for building a disciplined, respectful, and long-lasting team .

Tip 2: Be decisive and give clear instructions.

A good leader not only knows how to listen, but also knows when to take the initiative and make decisions . Clarity and decisiveness build team trust and guide work more effectively.

• Provide clear instructions : When assigning tasks, clearly state the goals, standards, and how to achieve them. This helps employees understand what you expect, avoiding mistakes and wasted time.

• Decision-making based on thorough information : Before making a choice, gather data, opinions from stakeholders, and consider carefully. When you make decisions based on understanding, you will be more confident, and others will trust you more.

• Demonstrate initiative and confidence : In situations lacking direction, boldly step forward and suggest a course of action.

  • For example, when your group is arguing endlessly without reaching a consensus, clearly state: "Hey everyone, let's go bowling!" This shows initiative and helps the group have a concrete direction.

• Maintain flexibility and humility : If your decision isn't unanimous, calmly listen and adjust. You could suggest a vote or consider other options – that's responsible confidence, not stubbornness .

• Be ready to adapt when necessary : ​​When new information emerges or the situation changes, don't hesitate to adjust your course. Holding onto a wrong decision just to protect your ego will cost the whole team dearly.

Decisive leaders know when to be firm and when to be flexible , and always act in the common good, not for their own ego.

Secret 3: Know how to delegate and support the development team.

A good leader isn't someone who does everything themselves, but rather someone who knows how to empower, trust, and create opportunities for others to shine . Delegating tasks correctly helps the team become more proactive while also allowing you to focus on the bigger picture.

• Avoid micromanagement and control : Give employees space to showcase their abilities. Overly strict control only demotivates them and reduces creativity.

• Assign tasks clearly and with specific goals : When assigning tasks, clearly state the expected results, completion standards, and deadlines.

  • For example, "Complete the technical documentation for at least 5 installation projects this week" is a clear requirement.

  • While "Prepare some technical documents" is vague and easily misunderstood.

• Provide sufficient resources and guidance : Don't just delegate tasks and then leave them to chance. If necessary, provide training or direct guidance.

  • When teaching a new skill, demonstrate and explain each step .

  • Observe them as they begin practicing, and if they make mistakes, correct them gently and constructively .

• Building trust through empowerment : When you delegate tasks and trust your employees, they will feel respected and more accountable for their work results.

Delegating tasks isn't just about assigning duties; it's about giving your team opportunities to grow – and when they succeed, you succeed too.

Secret 4: Persevere through challenges

A good leader isn't someone who always gets the better of things, but someone who knows how to stand firm when things get tough . Perseverance is the measure of your character and your influence in the eyes of your team.

• Don't give up when faced with obstacles : When the project encounters problems or the results aren't as expected, stay calm and find a way to handle it. The team will watch how you react to learn how to deal with pressure.

• Find a new perspective to solve the problem : Discuss with other team members to get more ideas or different approaches. Sometimes a fresh perspective can open up a completely different path.

• Change your strategy when necessary : ​​If your current approach isn't working, don't hesitate to try a different method or pause to reassess. A strategic step back can actually help you move forward.

• Allow yourself adequate rest : When feeling overwhelmed, take a break to recharge. Returning with a clearer mind, you'll find it easier to see the solution.

• Be honest about your difficulties : Admitting that you are facing challenges is not a sign of weakness , but rather a sign of honesty and humility. Your team will respect you even more because you dare to face reality.

Perseverance not only helps you overcome immediate challenges, but also inspires your team to trust you and move forward together .

Tip 5: Encourage innovation and creative thinking.

A good leader isn't someone who provides all the answers, but rather someone who inspires ideas and creates an environment where the team can leverage collective intelligence . Creativity is key to sustainable business growth in this rapidly changing era.

• Open the space for new ideas : When faced with a problem, don't try to make decisions alone. Allow everyone in the team to contribute their perspectives and propose their own solutions.

• Respect all opinions : Even if an idea seems "unconventional" or incomplete, listen with an open mind. Sometimes, different perspectives lead to breakthroughs.

• Organize regular brainstorming sessions : Dedicate time for the whole team to exchange ideas – a place where everyone has a chance to speak without judgment. This helps foster creativity and internal cohesion.

• Be prepared to change plans : If a better idea emerges, don't hesitate to adjust your approach. Flexible and attentive leaders will always earn the respect of their team.

• Transforming creativity into a work culture : When employees feel heard and encouraged to contribute, they will proactively find solutions and improve work performance.

Innovation doesn't just come from big ideas, but from a team that dares to think, dares to try, and is led by a trusted leader .

Tip 6: Build healthy relationships within the team.

Leadership is not just about managing tasks, but also about building genuine and strong relationships between people . When the team feels cared for and understood, they will contribute more and work with a more positive spirit.

• Connect genuinely with each team member : Take the time to chat, listen to their stories and concerns outside of work. See them for who they are, not just "employees."

• Create opportunities for socializing outside of work : Lunch breaks, coffee dates, or informal get-togethers after work help bridge gaps and foster natural bonding.

• Encourage teamwork :

  • Organize team-building activities to help people learn how to cooperate and trust each other more.

  • Encouraging team members to support each other when facing difficulties is the foundation of a strong team.

• Building a mentoring culture within the team :

  • If there are new members who are unfamiliar with the job, pair them with an experienced colleague so they can receive guidance and learn from them.

  • This not only helps newcomers integrate faster but also increases a sense of responsibility and team spirit .

• Maintain a respectful and positive environment : When people treat each other with goodwill and respect, cooperation will become natural and sustainable.

A cohesive team is the foundation for any success. When people trust and respect each other, work naturally becomes more efficient and inspiring.

Part 3: How to Build Trust in Leadership

Secret 1: Treat your team with respect and empathy.

A leader is loved not only for their competence, but also for how they treat people . When you know how to listen, respect, and empathize, you will build a loyal, trusting, and dedicated team.

• Listen attentively : When employees have a problem and come to you, stop everything else to listen to them. Show them that their voice is valued.

• Understanding and empathy : Put yourself in someone else's shoes to understand the feelings and difficulties they are going through. Sometimes, genuine empathy is more valuable than advice .

• Respect differences : Everyone has their own perspective. When there are differing opinions, listen with an open mind.

  • If that feedback helps you refine your decision, please take it into account.

  • If it's not possible, clearly state the reason and show respect for their point of view .

• Praise at the right time and in the right way : Acknowledge the efforts and achievements of each individual, no matter how small. Sincere praise will boost a positive work ethic within the team.

• Lead by example : How you treat your employees will shape the team culture. If you are courteous, a good listener, and respectful, they will do the same for each other.

Leadership is not just about guiding, but about building trust and loyalty through kindness and respect for people .

Secret 2: Keeping promises – the foundation of leadership credibility.

A good leader doesn't need to talk too much; they just need to do what they say . Every promise kept is a brick in building trust, while every broken promise is a crack in your credibility.

• Understand your capabilities before making promises : Don't rush into commitments just to please others. Realistically assess whether you have the resources, time, or authority to fulfill them.

  • For example: Don't promise a raise if the company budget doesn't allow it.

  • If you are the club leader, don't claim you can secure additional funding without first consulting with the management.

• Keep your word : Once you've made a promise, do your best to fulfill it. Doing what you say you'll do will earn you the respect and trust of your employees.

• Be upfront when things can't go your way : If unexpected changes make it impossible to keep a promise, proactively inform them in advance , clearly explain the reasons, and offer alternative solutions. Transparency maintains trust, even if the outcome isn't perfect.

• Practical value outweighs eloquent words : A trustworthy leader doesn't need to "speak well," they just need to speak less and accomplish more .

Keeping promises is not just a responsibility, but a core element that defines a trustworthy leader .

Tip 3: Give your team opportunities for growth.

A good leader is not only good at managing tasks—but also good at nurturing people . When you help your team grow, you not only improve their performance, but you also create a more loyal, engaged, and confident team each day.

• Creating opportunities for learning and growth : Allow employees to try their hand at new areas, take on greater responsibilities, or participate in different projects. When given opportunities, they become more confident and proactive.

• Encourage learning and professional development : Organize or sponsor skills-sharing sessions, professional courses, workshops, or mentoring programs.

  • For example: Invite a speaker to share about time management, work-life balance, and how to set effective goals to inspire your team.

• Constructive feedback : When giving feedback, point out the strengths first, then gently analyze the areas for improvement. Always include specific suggestions so they see a clear path for development.

• Regular one-on-one meetings : Dedicate time to individual conversations with each member to listen to their desires, challenges, and personal goals. This is an opportunity to both understand them and provide proper guidance.

• Trust and empowerment : Allow employees to make their own decisions within their area of ​​responsibility. Trust is the most effective form of training.

A strong team is built on people who are trusted, given opportunities, and developed in the right direction . When you invest in people, they will reciprocate by investing in your vision.

Tip 4: Actively listen to feedback from the team.

Good leaders aren't always right, but rather those who know how to listen in order to improve . When you proactively ask for your team's input, you not only improve yourself but also create an open environment where everyone dares to speak the truth and grow together.

• Take the initiative to ask questions, don't wait for feedback : Don't wait until a problem arises to get feedback. Regularly organize private discussions or send out anonymous surveys so that everyone can easily share their honest thoughts.

• Ask specific and constructive questions : Avoid general questions like, "Do people like the way I lead?" Instead, ask:

  • "What do you think I can do to become a better leader?"

  • "What can I improve to communicate more clearly with my team?"

• Maintain an open and receptive attitude : When receiving feedback, listen attentively without becoming defensive . Don't rush to justify or refute it; instead, thank the person and see it as an opportunity for improvement.

• Make practical changes : If you receive repeated feedback, take action. Show the team that you truly listen and respect their opinions .

• View feedback as a strength, not a threat : As HR expert Jeffrey Fermin once said, “Seeking feedback is a sign of growth. When you embrace it with a learning mindset, you demonstrate that you are a growth-minded leader.”

A true leader is not someone who is perfect, but someone who constantly learns from their team to become a better person .

Tip 5: Take responsibility for your own decisions.

A true leader doesn't shy away from mistakes—they take responsibility and learn from them . When you take responsibility, you not only strengthen your own credibility but also inspire your team with a spirit of transparency and integrity.

• Dare to take responsibility when mistakes occur : If a plan fails, don't blame the circumstances or the staff. Honestly acknowledge your share of responsibility and share solutions.

  • For example: If you are the team captain and the tactics you devised led to the team losing the match, say: “I realize there was a mistake in my calculations, and I will adjust them to do better next time.”

• Maintain a positive attitude : Admitting mistakes doesn't mean being pessimistic. Turn mistakes into learning opportunities to prove that you know how to rise stronger after failure.

• Inspiring personal responsibility : When employees see you being straightforward and willing to take responsibility, they will emulate that spirit in their own work.

• Don't blame – don't avoid : A weak leader always looks for someone to blame; a strong leader looks for solutions to move forward.

• Practice regular self-assessment : Regularly review your decisions and actions to make adjustments early, instead of waiting until a problem arises before reacting.

Responsibility is the measure of leadership. When you dare to say, "I take responsibility," you're halfway to becoming a trustworthy and respected leader.

Tip 6: Recognize and appreciate the contributions of others.

A humble leader understands that success is never solely their own . Every positive outcome comes from the collective effort of the team, and acknowledging the contributions of others is the most powerful way to foster teamwork and loyalty.

• Share the glory, don't keep it to yourself : When you achieve something, say " We did it " instead of " I did it ." A simple phrase, but enough to make the team feel appreciated.

• Acknowledge the right people's contributions at the right time : When someone does something well, praise them directly and specifically . For example: "Thanks to Lan's creative presentation, today's presentation was truly impressive."

• Inspire others with sincere expressions of gratitude : Even when busy, take the time to send thank-you notes via email, group chat, or during a team meeting. A public acknowledgment has a powerful impact.

• Celebrating individual talents : Everyone has unique strengths. When you encourage and respect these differences, they will become more engaged and maximize their potential.

• Humility is the strength of a leader : Humility doesn't diminish your power—on the contrary, it builds trust with your team and makes them more willing to dedicate themselves to you.

A great leader doesn't need to be at the center of all the praise. They shine because of the light they bring to others .

Tip 7: Dress appropriately for your leadership role.

Leadership isn't just about words or actions—it's also about how you present yourself to others . Appropriate attire helps you convey confidence, professionalism, and trustworthiness, but if it's too flashy, it can create distance between you and your team.

• Choose a style that suits the work environment :

  • If you manage a casual restaurant, having your staff wear suits and ties every day can make them feel distant. Opt for neat, casual attire that suits the actual work environment.

  • If you are the club president or class president, a crisp shirt or a simple, elegant dress will help you show respect and professionalism.

• Distinguishing between "dressing to impress" and "dressing to influence" :

  • Dressing to impress often involves ostentation and an emphasis on appearance.

  • Dressing to make an impact means choosing a style that makes others feel confident and comfortable working with you .

• Maintaining neatness and consistency : A leader who dresses neatly, cleanly, and consistently in style will help the team perceive professionalism and seriousness in their work.

• Adapt to the situation : Every environment, meeting, or event has its own "dress code." Carefully choose attire that suits each situation to project confidence and blend in naturally.

Remember, clothing doesn't make a leader, but it reflects how much you respect yourself and those you lead .

Helping the team achieve both individual and collective goals.

A good leader not only guides the team to its goal, but also helps each member grow along the way . When each individual is encouraged to improve, the entire team becomes stronger and more sustainable.

• Support each individual in achieving their personal goals : Every team member has different aspirations and goals. Listen to them, give them suitable opportunities to challenge themselves and develop their strengths. When employees feel they are getting closer to their personal goals, they will be more committed to the common goal.

• Prioritize trust, not attraction : In leadership, sincerity is more valuable than a captivating appearance . A genuine smile and timely encouragement will earn you more trust than any communication trick.

• Maintain fairness and professional boundaries : Building friendly relationships with the team is essential, but don't show favoritism or special treatment to anyone. When you maintain fairness, you'll earn more respect than mere affection.

• Maintaining personal ethics and values : As a leader, every action you take is observed. Therefore, your character and lifestyle are just as important as your competence . Upholding ethical standards, transparency, and integrity is the most powerful way to inspire others.

• Balancing goals and people : Don't just focus on the end result. A true leader knows that sustainable success comes from investing in people, not just numbers.

When you help others move forward, they will help you go further. And that is the essence of leadership based on belief and genuine values .

References

1. https://eller.arizona.edu/news/2021/04/top-11-qualities-good-leader
2. https://www.waldenu.edu/programs/business/resource/what-makes-a-good-leader-ten-essential-qualities-to-learn
3. https://www.forbes.com/sites/jomiller/2018/03/25/40-questions-to-ask-a-mentor/?sh=110b724a261b
4. https://www.ccl.org/articles/leading-effectively-articles/calm-conflict-in-the-workplace/
5. https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2022/05/16/12-simple-ways-leaders-can-boost-positivity-in-the-workplace/?sh=33194df6245e
6. https://hbr.org/2017/07/how-to-become-a-more-well-rounded-leader
7. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesleadershipforum/2012/10/24/you-cant-be-a-great-leader-without-trust-heres-how-you-build-it/
8. https://www.northeastern.edu/graduate/blog/top-5-leadership-qualities/
9. https://www.snhu.edu/about-us/newsroom/business/qualities-of-a-good-leader
10. https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/5-ways-to-train-yourself-to-be-a-great-leader/226265

Translated by: Rowan Hudson Le .