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Five Phrases The Best Leaders Use Repetitively, And The One They Never Say

This article is more than 8 years old.

Have you ever seen someone solve a Rubik’s cube in less than 40 seconds? It’s mesmerizing. Turn. Twist. Turn again. Rotate. Align. Spin. The action goes by so fast, it’s almost dizzying.

How do people get so good at solving those little cubes? It’s not just the principle of “practice makes perfect.” The most avid Rubik’s cube solvers will tell you that they got really good once they understood the mathematical principles of the cube. They know how many rotations are needed to align certain blocks. They understand that the middle block never moves. They count their turns to ensure they’re turning in correct steps. In short, they know exactly how the cube functions, and how to make it work.

The best leaders do almost the same thing. They understand the personality and dynamics of their team. They take the time to get to know individuals and learn their skills and strengths. And then, they use their time-tested strategies—the five phrases below—again and again, to lead the team past any obstacle and empower them to create great work in every situation. In fact, the best leaders use these five phrases repetitively because they are so successful. What are the five signature repetitive phrases of virtuoso leaders, and the one thing they’ll never say? Read on to find out.

1. “Here’s where we’re going—and this is how we’ll get there.”

Leaders are exceptional when they possess both a big-picture mindset and are simultaneously detail-oriented. They begin new projects by laying out the vision in a way that inspires the team. And then, they help each team member understand their unique role in the overall plan. Fantastic leaders will tell you where you’re going and why. But while hallmark of a good leader is that they’re inspirational, great leaders take that trait one step further. Not only do they deliver a vision, but they also lay out the action plan, eliminating confusion and empowering everyone to contribute to the great work ahead.

2. “Let’s work together.”

The best leaders have a willingness to jump in to projects and work side-by-side with their team. Instead of delegating tasks and sitting back while the team works towards a goal, the best leaders know they have a crucial role in working alongside everyone else. Whether the leader is there to guide and inspire, give feedback, or take on crucial tasks, they are in the thick of the action. And research has shown that exceptional work is created through the habit of sticking with it and following through until ideas come to fruition. The best leaders know that 90% of great work is created by innovators who stay involved until the work is complete—so they put a premium on working together.

3. “What do you think?”

Knowing when to stop and ask for help is a trait of the best leaders in the workplace. They value input and opinions because they know that diverse viewpoints improve the quality of their vision, processes, and products. When great leaders ask, “What do you think?” they don’t just levy their question towards the immediate team. Instead, they search out other experts and thought leaders to leverage their opinions. 72% of great work projects come about from incorporating diverse feedback from the outer circle. That’s why the best leaders ask this question as often as they can.

4. “How can I help?”

Good leaders pride themselves on leaving the door open, but the best leaders know that an open-door policy is not enough. Instead of simply being available, they reach out to ask team members questions like, “What can I assist you with?” or “How could I make your job easier?” Questions like this encourage constant improvement, and even more importantly, exemplify the respect the leader has for his team. In order to inspire others to do great work, the best leaders are down in the trenches, offering assistance and lending a helping hand whenever necessary.

5. “Thank You!

At least every week, if not more often, great leaders approach the team or individuals who have made a difference, and vocally, purposefully say thank you. Not only does this boost trust, respect, and pride in their work, but a leader who shows he notices and appreciates contributions is also tapping into the proven number one motivator to of producing great work: appreciation. That’s why the best leaders know it’s crucial to express thanks for the everyday value and big wins their people bring in—in a timely, sincere, specific manner.

These are the go-to phrases of the best leaders in any organization. But what is the one universal phrase that all great leaders avoid at any cost? Well, it’s the phrase none of us want to hear as employees—“Because I said so.” Any leader who uses this phrase—or any variant of it—undermines the team’s trust and ruins their own credibility. In saying it, the leader expresses disdain for any knowledge and skill, establishes a sense of superiority, and generally dampens the mood of the work group. Use this phrase weekly, and you’ll see disengagement and attrition skyrocket, while trust and teamwork plummet. Embrace the five phrases above, and you’ll empower great work throughout your team and organization.

Used again and again, these five phrases will empower your team to overcome any roadblocks. Results will follow. Then, all you’ll have to worry about is how to solve that darn Rubik’s cube…which, won’t be so intimidating because you’ve already mastered the repetitive motions of success.

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