Effective leadership is the backbone of success. However, a staggering 60% of new managers fail within their first two years. This failure of new managers is a stark reminder that something is broken in the way that new leaders are promoted and prepared for their new roles. As organizations scale and teams grow, it becomes vitally important for existing leaders to develop a style of leadership that empowers and equips the next generation of leaders.

Benji Kushwaha, founder of White Spot Group, is a leader who has not only thrived but also built a high-performing company by focusing on the importance of people and team leadership skills. While he believes that leadership is a never-ending commitment to growth, he shares the basic three tenets of his leadership practice.

1. Understanding Your People

Benji believes that the first step in effective leadership is truly understanding the people you work with. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing each team member’s strengths, challenges, and personal motivations.

“When you understand what drives your team, you can better align their goals with the company’s vision,” Benji says. This approach leads to a more engaged and productive workforce, as employees feel seen and valued, not just as workers but as individuals. Taking the time to understand your team helps create a strong bond built on trust, which is essential for long-term success.

By understanding people on a deeper level, Benji ensures that communication is clear and that team members feel included in the larger vision of the company. When everyone knows their purpose and role in achieving company goals, it results in a more unified team effort.

2. Avoid Micromanaging

Another fundamental aspect of Benji’s leadership style is his commitment to avoiding micromanagement. While guidance and direction are necessary, he believes that giving employees the freedom to take ownership of their roles is crucial for growth.

“The best results come when you give people space to succeed. Micromanaging undermines their confidence and stifles innovation,” Benji explains. When leaders trust their teams to make decisions and solve problems, employees are more likely to take pride in their work and feel more accountable for the outcomes.

Benji encourages autonomy by allowing employees to make decisions on their own, which not only improves morale but also fosters a sense of independence and pride. Leaders should act as mentors, offering support and resources rather than controlling every aspect of an employee’s work. This hands-off approach allows teams to innovate and make the company better, not just through their tasks but through creative problem-solving and new ideas.

3. Creating a Culture of Recognition and Growth

Finally, Benji emphasizes the importance of recognition and creating a culture that promotes ongoing development. Recognizing hard work, whether through formal recognition or simple daily appreciation, is vital for maintaining employee morale and engagement.

“Recognition is a powerful tool for motivating employees. A simple thank you can go a long way,” Benji says. At White Spot Group, regular acknowledgment of achievements ensures that employees feel valued for their contributions, which boosts both satisfaction and loyalty.

In addition to recognition, Benji ensures that individual growth is aligned with the company’s broader goals. “We make sure that individual career development is tied to the company’s success,” he explains.

This alignment creates a win-win situation where both the company and its employees are invested in each other’s success. By providing opportunities for growth and aligning them with business objectives, employees feel they are progressing in their careers while contributing to the company’s overall mission.