If you are a new business owner or manager, you may feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities involved in leading a team effectively. You may not even know where to start. However, strong leadership is vital to business success. Therefore, these are a few tips you can test.

Find a Mentor

Mentors are incredible assets in almost any position. These professionals have extensive experience in the role you are assuming. They understand what you may encounter as a manager or new business owner. They can help you through your initial challenges and prepare you for those that may come later.

Learn Mediation Techniques

Workplace conflict is not uncommon. In fact, many employees spend hours each week in conflict. Therefore, you need to understand how to diffuse arguments. This often involves mediating tense conversations. Unfortunately, these situations rarely dissolve or resolve themselves. They often need intervention, and you need to learn how to do so in a way that does not offend or otherwise harm your subordinates.

Part of this strategy involves actively listening to each team member’s complaints and viewpoints. You need to be empathetic because this issue will truly affect the individual bringing it up. Be understanding and acknowledge their feelings, but search for the root of the problem and work with your employees to solve it.

Build Trust

The best way to build trust is to invest in your employees’ futures. Therefore, spend time with them individually and as a group. Discuss their personal and professional goals. Find ways that you can help them achieve these goals, such as assigning them new projects that stretch their abilities. You can also develop collaborations where your staff can learn from each other.

You should also be transparent in your decisions and duties. If you make decisions that impact your staff, tell them why you came to the conclusion you did and discuss any implications they may experience as a result of the decision. Pursue open, honest communication at all times.

Exchange Feedback

Your staff members need to know that they are doing a good job. You shouldn’t only give them feedback when they do something wrong, however. This can be demeaning and disheartening. Instead, provide feedback on both their successes and struggles. Work with them to overcome their weaknesses and get on the right track.

However, you also need to seek feedback from your employees. You need this information so that you can grow in your management role. Focus on improving the areas you and your staff see as weaknesses.

Honing your leadership skills is a process that you will likely work on your entire career. However, these tips can help you get started.