Being a leaders isn’t easy. The best leaders possess a lot of key qualities. Whether you’re looking to advance your career and you’re curious what it takes, or you’re looking for leaders to promote within your organization, here are some of the top leadership qualities great leaders possess.
What are the Qualities of a Great Leader?
Leadership is about so much more than who’s the boss. A title plate on the door doesn’t mean you’re actually a leader… especially a great one. And you can lead long before having the upgrade from cubicle to office.
There are many different schools of thought when it comes to leadership. Some take servant leadership into account, others take the Dale Carnegie “winning friends and influencing people” approach. Regardless which angle you prefer, we’ve narrowed the field to the seven primary qualities of a great leader.
The Difference Between Leadership Skills and Leadership Qualities?
It’s the age-old question. Are leaders born with what it takes? Or is it learned over time? The short answer is – yes to both. Some attributes can’t be taught. You either have them or you don’t. But all skills can be learned. Anyone can grow in their leadership skills. But some of the qualities we’ll lay out here are more intangible parts of your character. It’s just who you are.
Top 7 Leadership Qualities
Again, there are many qualities that the best leaders share. We’ve whittled away to the top seven qualities they all have.
1. Integrity
This one is listed first for a reason. You can’t effectively lead a team or run a business successfully without integrity. It’s the foundation of good leadership. The best leaders can inspire regardless of circumstances and have personal integrity. They won’t lie or take shortcuts for short-term wins. They’ll follow their values and moral compass even at the expense of personal gain. They give credit where its due, acknowledge their own mistakes, and put the safety and well-being of their own people over the bottom line. The best leaders are secure in themselves and understand the importance of their role for their people.
2. Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to identify, manage, evaluate, and understand our own emotions and the people around us. This one is huge in leading well. Emotional intelligence includes self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, motivation, and social skills.
Good leaders take calculated decisions without getting carried away. They can see things from other’s perspectives and take them into account before acting. They’re self-motivated and because of their strong social skills, they can build healthy relationships. Empathetic leaders are aware of other’s feelings. It doesn’t always mean you’ll always agree on someone else’s views, but that you appreciate and have a willingness to understand. When a team member feels heard and that their opinions matter, they’ll look for ways to innovate. It’s easy to see why this is one of the essential leadership attributes.
3. Attitude
Attitude is key in overcoming adversity and pushing through pressure. And a good attitude is contagious. NFL coach Tom Landry said, “Leadership is a matter of having people look at you and gain confidence, seeing how you react. If you’re in control, they’re in control.” Your team takes their cues from you. If you maintain a calm demeanor, your department will maintain the same.
4. Loyalty to Your Team
The best leaders understand that true loyalty is given and earned. Because of this, they express loyalty by standing up for team members in crisis and conflict. They also ensure that all team members have the training and resources to do their jobs. When employees believe you’re loyal to them, they’re much more likely to return that loyalty when it matters.
5. Trust in the Team
The best leaders choose to believe the best of others. They empower their team members to innovate and discover new ways of getting work done. It’s not easy putting the success of the company in the hands of others, but great leaders know who to hand the keys to and when to do it.
6. Decisiveness
You can’t be wishy-washy and keep a healthy team. The best leaders are decisive, to a point. They’re clear and certain when it comes to direction. They think ahead and usually know what action to take even before the decision comes their way.
When confronted with a tough choice, they gather all the necessary information they’ll need before making any announcements, rejecting rumors and unnecessary consensus. And they’re willing to take risks.
7. Humility
The word “humility” may not be the first one that comes to mind regarding leadership, but it’s one of the most important qualities of a great leader.
Humble leaders understand it’s not all about them, but the greater good. They lead to grow their team members, not govern with an iron fist. They know their own strengths and weaknesses and are always willing and eager to learn more.
Become a Great Leader
There’s so much to being a great leader. Many other factors like natural charisma and effective communication come into play. But the mere fact you’re reading this means you understand that the best leaders are lifelong learners. It’s not a destination. It’s the trip!
For more on these qualities and other skills needed to lead your team to success, check out Southwestern Consulting. Our professional leadership coaches will work with you 1:1 to help take your leadership skills to the next level.
Contact us today for a free Strategy Session to see if coaching or leadership training is right for you.
I’ve made the best investment for myself and my business by hiring Elizabeth Mahusay to be my coach! She has helped me grow my leadership skills through her guidance and direction. Having a professional coach like her has made a positive impact in both my business and income. My business is currently up over 200% from last year! All thanks to Elizabeth Mahusay and Southwestern Coaching!
Shawna D.
Listen to professional Sales and Leadership Coach Ron Alford discuss Leadership Training: Tips for New Leaders below:
