A core component of leadership is harnessing positive influence to achieve desired goals for a business. This is not through micro-management, control, and coercion. Rather, it’s about building trusting relationships that foster a shared sense of purpose across a team and organisation; and a positive culture that encourages people to thrive and do their best work.
We understand that leadership is not easy. Some people find themselves in leadership positions with deep understanding of a company’s products, services, and procedures but they may not have all the necessary skills to effectively lead, coach and mentor.
It may seem like it’s some kind of mystical, maybe-they’re-born-with-it combination of traits that defines the next level of leader. But we think it’s more concrete than that.
Below we explore some of the key qualities we believe set a truly great leader apart. The kind of leader whose inspiration and lessons you carry with you through life.
Be a lifelong learner
More than just ticking a box and obtaining a certificate from a leadership course, this is about embracing the full depth and breadth of being a learner. Even if you are a seasoned professional, there is always something new to learn. It’s about being open that these lessons can come from many places, people, and experiences.
Finally, it’s about being generous with the things you have learned. Share that knowledge.
Resilience and comfort with ambiguity
Just as with anything in life, the business of business is full of uncertainty. You can plan as much as you can (and it’s still good to do so!), but there will always be surprises to keep you on your toes. Key to thriving in a leadership role, is being able to make decisions with conviction, and getting acquainted with that feeling of discomfort, even when you don’t have all the information.
Cultivating resilience will help you navigate the unknowns, overcome challenges, and inspire your team to do the same.
Empowerment
Great leaders empower their team to do great work. This is done by sharing their vision, knowledge, and enthusiasm. When teams feel trusted, they are more likely to do what needs to be done, be a true supporter of you and the company and feel greater satisfaction that their contribution matters.
Authenticity and integrity
People are savvy and they will see through a leader that acts in ways that does not align with their words. Great leaders create trust and credibility through leading by example, which illuminates the path for others.
Think about some of the leaders in your life. Who are the ones that you admire? Do you think they embodied the above qualities? Are there any other qualities that you would add to this list?
Let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!