What Are the Biggest Mistakes Leaders Make & How To Avoid Them

Every leader, no matter how experienced or talented, makes mistakes. The beauty of leadership is not in striving for perfection but in recognizing that growth comes through learning from these errors. The ability to acknowledge missteps and work toward bettering ourselves is what distinguishes effective leaders. If you’ve asked yourself, “Do leaders make mistakes?” the answer is absolutely yes. But the real question is, how do we avoid repeating them? Let’s explore some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Common Mistakes Leaders Make & How To Avoid Them

Leadership mistakes can impact not just your personal growth but also the progress of your team and organization. In this blog, we’ll explore five common missteps and how you can avoid them to grow as a leader. For a deeper dive into these leadership lessons, check out our podcast, “Top People Mistakes Leaders Make.”

1. Not Connecting with Your Team: Building More Than Just Relationships

It’s easy to form relationships at work. You say hello, share pleasantries, and talk shop. But connecting with your team goes far beyond casual interactions. A connection is about genuinely understanding what motivates each individual, what challenges they face, and what makes them feel valued.

When you connect with someone on a deeper level, you build trust, which in turn fosters loyalty. Team members don’t just follow you because of your title, they follow you because they believe in you. Take time to listen, be present, and invest in personal connections. These are the foundations of a strong and engaged team.

2. Lack of Accessibility: Your Team Needs You to Be Present

We get it—leaders are busy. Between meetings, planning, and tackling big-picture tasks, it’s easy to lose touch with your team. However, a leader who isn’t accessible sends a message, intentional or not, that they don’t care. Your presence matters.

Being accessible doesn’t mean always having an open door. Instead, it means being approachable. Walk slowly through the office, make small but meaningful interactions, and show your team that you see them. Even a brief conversation can go a long way in letting them know you’re there.

3. Failing to Develop Your Team: The Cost of Overlooking Growth Opportunities

One of the most rewarding aspects of leadership is helping others grow. When leaders fail to invest in the development of their team, they miss the chance to build future leaders. If team members feel stagnant, they’re more likely to disengage or leave.

Developing your team doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by identifying growth opportunities already available—invite them to important meetings, give them leadership in projects, or encourage them to take on responsibilities outside their comfort zone. Growth happens when we step into challenges, and it’s up to you to create those moments.

4. Lack of Regular Feedback: Your Team Craves Guidance

Many leaders fall into the habit of only giving feedback when something goes wrong. While it’s important to address mistakes, don’t overlook the power of regular, constructive feedback. People need to know where they stand and how they can improve.

A practical approach is using the “intention vs. perception gap” technique. Start with what you perceive to be the intention behind someone’s action, then share how it was perceived by others. This opens a dialogue and allows for both parties to grow. Feedback isn’t just a tool for correction—it’s a tool for development.

5. Not Being Inclusive: Every Team Member Needs to Feel They Belong

When a team member doesn’t feel included, their performance suffers. A team thrives when everyone feels that their voice matters, that they belong, and that their contributions are valued. Unfortunately, leaders can sometimes, without realizing it, create an “insider” and “outsider” culture.

To be inclusive means to ensure that diverse opinions and perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated. Take the time to ask questions, invite different voices to the table, and show your team that every person’s input is valued. This fosters an environment where everyone feels they belong.

Maxwell Leadership Can Help You Avoid These Mistakes

Leadership isn’t about being perfect. It’s about growing every day and learning from both your successes and your mistakes. If you want to continue growing as a leader, Maxwell Leadership is here to support you. Our Executive Coaching programs provide personalized guidance to help you develop self-awareness, refine your leadership skills, and navigate the complexities of leading a team. 

Whether you’re looking to improve team connections, provide better feedback, or become a more inclusive leader, our coaches will equip you with the tools and strategies you need to succeed. Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Explore our Executive Coaching programs today and start your journey to becoming the leader you’re meant to be. From executive presence, team leadership development, corporate management, and women in leadership, we provide the expertise and tools you need to thrive in every aspect of leadership. 

To learn more about how we can help you grow as a leader, explore our Executive Coaching services. And for ongoing leadership insights, subscribe to the Maxwell Leadership Podcast for free today.