'Leadership is the problem, leadership is the answer '
- Bedros Keuillian
I like that quote. It reminds us that leadership is necessary for the success of any organization.
Leadership is necessary. Leadership is needed.
Leadership is taking people from one place to another. Therefore it is vital that leadership be great.
What makes a leader great? What sort of qualities do they possess that enable not only them, but those they lead to excel?
Here are 5 qualities that every great leader possesses.
Great Leaders Have Character
This goes without saying you would think. But sadly much leadership is toxic simply because it lacks character. A great leader will be a person of character. They will have integrity. They are known for honesty.
This sort of leader people can trust because they know they are who they are all the time. They have ethical excellence. They do not take shortcuts, manipulate people or use people simply as means to an end.
You can take them at their word.
Great Leaders Have Competence
Great leaders are competent. They know what they are doing. Leadership is taking people from one place to another. In order to do that, one must know where they are going and how to get there. A competent leader has a clear picture of what they are leading people to achieve. They have a clear vision with clear goals and a clear plan to make it happen.
If a leader does not know where they are going, everybody will be confused. No one will have any idea what to expect or what to do.
Great Leaders Have Courage
Next up is courage. I put this next because this has to do with mindset. There are plenty of competent people who lack the courage to act. Courage is unavoidable in leadership. Courageous leaders see opportunities where others only see obstacles. They are willing to step up, step out and take risk. Facing potential failure, fears, the unknown and endure hardship and criticism.
All great leaders have been courageous.
Great Leaders Communicate
Great leaders are great communicators. They communicate what the goal is and how to get there. Their communication is clear and compelling. No one is confused about the objectives. They also communicate expectations clearly as well. Everyone knows what to do.
Great Leaders Coach
Great leaders are coaches. They bring out the best in their team. They help others rise to their highest potential. This is especially valuable in several areas.
When there is a performance gap and someone is not meeting their key performance indexes, the coaching leader will ask questions to help them diagnose what is holding them back. It might be a mindset issue, or a skillset issue. Whatever it is the coaching leader will help them see where they are stuck and develop a plan to get them going on in productivity again.
Coaching also helps in dealing with conflicts. By coaching, the leader helps their team member see things and situations from broader perspectives. Then they can analyze the conflicts they face in a healthier manner.
Great Leaders Have Commitment
Lastly, and not least comes commitment. The apostle Paul said to lead with diligence. Leadership takes every effort for excellence. Good leaders see things through and are fully committed.
Starting is easy, but finishing is rare. Great leaders see things through to the end.
There you go! 5 qualities every great leader possesses.
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