If you’re looking to improve your leadership skills, there is an easy way to remember the ones you should prioritize. Focus on the three Cs of leadership: challenge, confidence, and coach.

1. Challenge. Exceptional leaders recognize potential in their team members. If you think about the leaders that inspired you, they are probably ones who challenged you to aim higher and stretch beyond your comfort zone. Explain to team members why change is necessary and increase challenges gradually, so they don’t become overwhelmed. Set a good example by willingly taking on your own new challenges, and others around you will be more inclined to do the same.
    
2. Confidence. Build confidence in your team members by recognizing their talent, determination, hard work, and successes. This sends a message that you trust your team members to take on new and greater challenges. To be effective, praise must be sincere, and make sure it doesn’t encourage overconfidence in team members. Encourage them instead to be open, humble, and willing to learn from both successes and setbacks.
    
3. Coach. Coaching staff is another key responsibility for managers. It involves providing direction, encouragement, guidance, and feedback. In some cases, you will demonstrate to a team member how to handle a new challenge; in others, you will ask insightful questions to prompt the person to critique their behavior or identify better strategies. Make sure the person is open to coaching before you proceed: “Would you be willing to hear some feedback?” Again, set a good example by seeking feedback on your own performance and showing appreciation for suggestions. 
    

For more advice, read “What Are the 3 Cs of Effective Leadership?”