Leadership isn’t just about holding a title. It’s about driving trust, productivity, and inspiration. Unfortunately, certain behaviors can erode a leader’s effectiveness. Here are 12 types of leadership missteps to avoid:

1. The Bully

Believes fear is the best motivator and uses intimidation to assert control. This approach fosters resentment, not respect.

2. The Absentee Boss

Keeps their door shut, buried in reports, and prioritizing appeasing higher-ups, leaving their team leaderless and directionless.

3. The Divider

Shows blatant favoritism and fuels conflict, often playing team members against one another and disrupting harmony.

4. The Micromanager

Constantly observes and controls every detail of the team’s work, stifling creativity and trust.

5. The Arrogant Know-It-All

Believes they’re the only one capable of handling workplace demands or solving problems, alienating others with their ego.

6. The Poor Communicator

Relies excessively on emails or resorts to emotional outbursts, causing confusion and demotivation.

7. The Indecisive Leader

Struggles to make timely decisions on critical matters, leaving their team in a state of uncertainty.

8. The Disorganized Leader

Frequently forgets meetings, misses deadlines, or shows up late, sending a message of unreliability.

9. The Complacent Leader

Believes that “no news is good news,” neglecting proactive leadership and opportunities for growth.

10. The Resister

Refuses to embrace change, holding back innovation and progress for both the team and organization.

11. The Rule Bender

Fails to lead by example, engaging in questionable behavior that undermines integrity and trust.

12. The Poor Performer

Doesn’t acknowledge the contributions of others and often takes credit for their team’s successes.