There are times were I ask myself, how did I learn to lead people? Where did I learn how to communicate well with them? I approach my way of managing and leading people in a kind, empathetic and honest way. So far this was highly appreciated and enjoyable. But how did I get here.

While thinking about this today, one thing came to mind that might have had a bigger influence than I thought. At a past company I worked at, Buffer, it was recommended to read the book "How to win friends and influence people" by Dale Carnegie.

The title put me off a bit, influencing people has a strong feeling to it. The book proved me wrong. It was a book on how to work well with people and how to understand that we all are human beings with our own minds, feelings, thoughts and worlds we live in.

Here are a few lessons that have been influencing my way of leading.

Praise in a honest and sincere way

I have to admit, unfortunately this is something that we loose track of too often. Make sure that you praise often and sincere. It will do so much for the relationship and feeling in the team, if the great work is seen by you.

Talk about your own mistakes

Leading by example shouldn't be new to you. Saying that "I messed up" is such a strong and honest way of telling everyone that we are all human. That there is nothing superhuman about being a leader. We are all the same.

Encourage and motivate

This is also part of your job as a leader. Motivate and encourage the people you work with. Make them look past a mistake and extract learnings. Show them the bigger goal and give them purpose.

Be a good listener

Something that I don't hate repeating. Learn how to listen well. Everything you can do to get better at it, do it! As simple as that!

What is one book you would recommend?