7 Ways to Empower Others

You may have noticed that “empowerment” is a hot term these days. Feeling empowered is a key component to reaching personal success, but what exactly does that mean? Here I offer my perspective…. 

In 2016, I founded a nonprofit in my community that serves teens. Our mission statement is simple….Thrive Clermont Empowers Teens to Succeed.  I remember giving many presentations in 2016-2018 to many local groups and simply unpacked the mission statement.  What does it mean to empower teens? What does it mean to succeed?  Rather than seeking the “right” answer, it helps to understand that there are multiple answers which are as unique as each individual.    

Empower might seem like a new word, but it's been around since the 17th century and early use of the word Empower referenced ….giving a person or group a level of authorization or rights.  The meaning of “Empower” has been expanded to also refer to helping a person or group realize and access their potential or reach their goal.  

Throughout my career, I have found a key to increasing your personal power and comes through empowering others.   Leaders are most effective when they have the ability to support those around them in feeling empowered. While everyone has their own unique idea of personal success, the actions we take as leaders to empower others is more universal and works across industries and management levels. 

In organizations of all sizes, success is directly tied to the individual’s ability to realize their potential AND have the authorization to do so. This is what it means to empower others. 

7 Simple and Effective Ways to Empower others.  

• Set an Example - In the 1960s, the actions of the leaders in the women's movement empowered many other women to stand up and demand equal rights.  Strong early advocates empowered others by exercising their personal power to change the laws of the times. This helped many others to realize and access their personal power to effectuate change. This is a good example of how when individuals exercise personal power they will empower others.  

• Listen Intently – This one is simple, but not easy.  I personally process verbally, which means that I need to speak my ideas outloud to see how they sound and how I feel as I talk.  Being heard is one of the greatest feelings and leaders that can hear both the words and the energy behind the words allows us to respond in ways that empower individuals to take the next best steps.  there is more being said than the words spoken.  Is the person you are listening to upset or excited, depressed or tired.  What do they need other than a listen?  The tone and body language will tell you more. 

• Ask powerful questions – Asking the right questions can awaken a chain of thought that will encourage new ideas and more independent thinking.  Some universally effective queries to consider include: What are the factors we should consider? How can I support you being successful with this goal? What could we be doing differently/better?  Could you please share your ideas on how to make this more efficient? 

• Believe in Them – An individual’s confidence is based on trusting themselves.  Encourage confidence by showing others that you believe in them which offers confirmation.  Often just one other person believing in you can make the difference.  In competitive business environments it is fortifying (and refreshing). Placing seeds of doubt will undermine the process and should be avoided.  

• Forgive Mistakes – Obviously, no one wants to make mistakes.  By reviewing what was learned, without shaming, a leader can create a reset for the individual and establish a path towards future success. 

• Provide A Growth Path – At every opportunity, invite team members to advance their skills and experience by getting outside their comfort zone. Individuals grow through opportunities, not restrictions or stagnancy.  Empowerment comes from offering tasks and projects that expand. 

• Celebrate Often – I have participated in many sales meetings where leaders are primarily focused on the gap between real time status and the goal in the distance.  This can establish a sense of lack and be dis-empowering.  When this is balanced with celebrating milestones and  recognition of important progress or challenges overcome.  Through these public acknowledgements, confidence is boosted and individuals feel empowered to continue advancing toward even the toughest goals. 

Leaders know that growth and expansion are part of a successful organization. Under a strong leader, empowered individuals will feel they have the ability AND the authority to be successful.  Incorporating a focus on empowering others creates long-term success.