The 5 Costly Leadership Mistakes

Great companies are built by great leaders. Avoid these five mistakes that quietly drive turnover, stall growth, and drain profit.

1) Micromanaging Instead of Empowering

Cost: Low morale, slow innovation, higher attrition.

Fix: Set clear outcomes, give ownership, review progress and not every move.

2) Missing Empathy & Recognition

Cost: Burnout, quiet quitting, disengaged teams.

Fix: Listen often, recognize wins publicly, coach privately.

3) Resisting Feedback & Change

Cost: Missed opportunities, outdated practices, frustrated talent.

Fix: Create feedback loops, test / iterate, model adaptability.

4) Chasing Numbers Over People

Cost: Short-term spikes, long-term instability and turnover.

Fix: Align goals with values, protect capacity, invest in culture.

5) Neglecting Development & Career Paths

Cost: Skills gaps, stalled growth, constant rehiring.

Fix: Provide training, mentoring, and clear paths to advance.

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