A good leader…
Inspires and motivates others
People wants to work for a company that makes a difference in the world. A good leader regularly helps the members of her team connect to the vision and connect what they do to the impact it has on customers and communities.
Displays high integrity and honesty (always)
Great leaders are honest and transparent, and have high integrity–they do what they say they are going to do, and they ‘walk the talk.’ This is how they build respect.
Is a problem-solver with good people skills
Ultimately, leaders are recruited, trained, and chosen to solve organizational problems, and to take advantage of opportunities in the marketplace. This requires excellent analytical abilities and also above-average people skills.
Drives for results
Some people are happy to sit back and watch the world go by. Great leaders have a higher level of perseverance, stick-to-itiveness, and drive than most anyone else, and they can be counted on to get things done.
Develops others
The best leaders set aside time (and money in their budgets) to develop their workforce. They look for the most promising employees, and provide them with the training they need to become their company’s next generation of great leaders.
Communicates powerfully
Great leaders communicate with their people often, and in a variety of different ways. Whatever the medium they use, leaders don’t talk about communicating–they just do it.
Builds relationships
A good business is built on a solid foundation of relationships and trust. A good leader takes time every day to build relationships with the members of the team, customers and vendors, boss, their network, others in the industry, and the community.