Harry Markopolos saw the red flags, but nobody wanted to listen. He spent years investigating Bernie Madoff’s financial successes and uncovered a lot of fraud. He went to the authorities multiple times to alert them to Madoff’s suspicious activity. Finally, only after his kids came forward, Madoff admitted to turning his wealth management business into a massive Ponzi scheme. He pleaded guilty to 11 federal felonies after cheating thousands of people out of billions of dollars. There were red flags everywhere, and yet nobody wanted to accept them. If we’re not careful, any of us could make the same mistake.
Leaders who ignore red flags will almost always wind up regretting it. Red flags require your attention, especially if you desire peace and unity among those you’re leading. Some red flags are obvious, but the most common ones are easily overlooked. Here are 6 red flags that should catch every leader’s attention.
1. Minimizing Words
Your ears should perk up when you hear someone say, “I’m just a ____.” Good leaders know that nobody is insignificant. Every role matters. If someone you’re leading feels unseen, underappreciated, or a replaceable part of your organization or team, make it your mission to remind them of their worth. Minimizing words reflect someone’s need for encouragement.
2. Excessive Apologies
“I’m so sorry. It’ll never happen again.” We’ve all heard something like this. There’s nothing wrong with being apologetic, but if someone you’re leading is doing it all the time, that is a problem. This behavior shows a lack of confidence. That’s the real red flag. Find out why the person feels the need to apologize all the time. He or she may be a people-pleaser or may need a boost in self-esteem.
3. Absolutes
Phrases like “I Never” or “We always” are rarely true. Absolutes are red flags for leaders. It shows there is some sort of unfairness, even if it’s just perceived. When you hear absolutes, ask for more information. Why does someone feel like the outcomes are always black and white? Where is the middle ground?
4. Confusion
One of the most important leadership tips is to foster clarity. If you hear people saying, “Can you repeat that?” or “What do you mean?” it signals a breakdown in communication. Analyze this from all angles. Ask questions, both to them and yourself. Make clarity your goal because clarity leads to progress.
5. Frustration
“Why does this always happen?” Moments of frustration are natural, but if you’re hearing this all the time, it’s a red flag in leadership. Dig down to the root of the frustration. Find out what is behind all the dissatisfaction. It could require a minor change or may be the symptom of a larger problem. Address it with kindness.
6. Selfish Words
Unlike minimizing words, when someone speaks selfishly, it suggests that they feel more important than others. A person who says “me” and “I” often is someone who is usually more self-focused and not very team-focused. Pull them aside and give leadership tips. Ask about what matters most to them. Stress the importance of collaboration.
What are some other red flags leaders should look for among the people they lead? Share in a comment.
