By Kamal Kant

Introduction
For many of us being a leader is often an unnerving experience. Guiding and dealing with people issues is often a very challenging task for leaders, managers and supervisors. Some of us may even feel as if we have been dumped into a trackless desert where people await our leadership direction even before anyone has handed you a map.

Here are some signposts to assist you:

Originality
Do not try to 'copy' or emulate other leaders, managers or supervisors you know! You can only be confident that your decisions will hold in times of pressure if you remain yourself. Develop your own personal and individual style of leadership.

Initiating Change
When you start on something new or initiate a change, do not be a "new broom" that immediately tries to sweep away all previous procedures. Reassure your staff that it will be "business as usual" at least until you get the lay of the land and have a clear idea of what is needed. This will ensure any change you implement is effected smoothly.

Information
Observe, ask questions, be a good listener, solicit input, let people know you are open to being informed of problems. By having regular dialogue with your colleagues, peers and subordinates, you will get a better grasp of the issues and make more meaningful decisions and solve problems in creative ways that will ensure success in the workplace.

Visibility
Many leaders overlook the value of MBWA (managing by walking around)! Move around among your staff. Find ways to get to know them. If necessary, create reasons for contact so that you can establish good two-way communications. This will give you invaluable input.

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