What traits do you believe make a good leader?
I believe integrity, honesty and compassion are all key to being a successful leader. I believe in utilizing a Democratic technique when leading. Getting your employees input and designating responsibility not only helps with motivation but also with the success of an organization. Some other traits are the ability to listen and react constructively and to align others towards a common goal and uncover common barriers that may inhibit an employee to do their job.
A good leader also needs to be able to roll the sleeves up and work elbow to elbow with their team members.
I teach a ledaership development course focused on competencies. Most common student selections for ideal leaders are patience, integrity and trust, a work life balance. These have been selected by students consistently over the past 2 years. The choices demonstrate a contemporary leadership viewpoint...a millenial influence.
Cory,
I completely agree that the leading by example is key as this helps build the credibility & trust.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I think an aspect often overlooked by management is the importance of leading by example. Of course, communication, active listening, problem-solving and motivational/negotiation skills are extremely important characteristics. But if one fails to earn the respect (expertise and trust) of subordinates, by setting an example, achieving goals maybe be severely slow to impossible to reach. Furthermore, if the leader fails to show they are invested in both the company and its internal family (staff), others will quickly adapt to portraying the same demeanor; becoming isolated and disassociated. In turn, the desire to perform 100+% each and everyday is greatly diminished. I agree that your only as strong as your weakest link. However, every link are affected and influenced by the Leader. If they have a "don't care attitude", complain all the time, etc. it will be contagious.
Lisa,
great point made here at the end of your post. We must demonstrate that we care, but this has to be gauged.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I have worked for multiple leaders in the last 20+ years and I personally believe the following traits are critical for a leader; dedication, trust, integrity, willingness to empower others, and a person who stands behind their employees. I would like to think I have these traits, however I struggle with relating to others. A great leader has to strike the balance between caring for their people and caring so much that you allow them to walk all over them.
There's an old adage that says "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care". I have found that one of the most valuable assets you can have when leading is if your people know that you have their best interest at heart. Many times our decisions are unpopular and have the tendency to draw pushback. But even when I've had to make difficult decisions, it has helped me because my team knows that I've been mindful of their well-being as well as the company's.
Laura,
yes, being a transparent & authentic leader is a key to effective leadership.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I strongly agree with Transparency and staying HUMBLE! Also a great leader once told me you have to learn walk the talk and talk the walk. And always be ready to role your sleeves up and be a team player.
These are all great. I have found that the key is to walk the walk. Leaders who tell people what to do without doing the work themselves are not effective. I believe in walking along with my staff, getting my hands dirty and providing an opportunity for them to develop themselves to get ready for management positions if they become available.
I would also add that the leader be genuine and transparent. The employee can see right through the leader and will know he/she is not telling the truth. This may cause the employee to tune his/her leader out, affecting performance, motivation, and morale in the department.
Gregory,
this is a great synopsis of a good leader. I would add that they need the ability to communicate that vision too.
Dr. Ryan Meers
A good leader would be someone who has the experience and the ability to lead. By having those traits it ensures that a person is able to have a clear vision. By having a vision that is clear and has both short term and long term goals and objectives that the person would be a success in the role of leader. In addition, the person would need to have goals that are manageable and obtainable because if the goals are not realistic than it will fall short, and there will be disconnect between the manager and their vision that they expect their employees to follow.
Jeannine ,
I think you are right on with your assessment here. Nothing can replace a good leader who truly cares for her/his people.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I believe that listening and caring about your employees helps build a mutual respect, in turn, employees work more effectively...
Priscilla,
this is a great approach when we balance it with sharing the vision & direction so they can consistently self-evaluate to make sure they are aligned with the big picture.
Dr. Ryan Meers
When employees have the skills to do a job and to make decisions about how best to get their work done, I find they are so grateful to have the freedom of the Democratic style. Also, it includes them in sharing their wisdom, and shows respect and acknowledgment of their skills. This hat recognition of their abilities is worth so much to them.
Yes I agree. I am very aware when I don't hold up these high standards within myself, and for my group, that the team loses trust in me and lack of safety and uncertainty start to be the focus of the group's energy.
Learning on the job as well as class was hugh for me... It let me know that what I missed or forgot in the classroom would'nt be held against me... there was still so much training to be done and still so much to learn. My supervisor let me know that we are always still learning and we need to remind new employees of that. Especially if they just finished school, or are still attending school.
