Characteristics of Leadership
June 27, 2008
Defining leadership characteristics are not simple. This is because each leader has his own characteristics. However there are some common features required for an exemplary leader. A typical leader should know how to influence his team members to work hard and stay committed to achieve the overall organizational goals. A leader can be either task oriented or people oriented. Task oriented leader will be interested in training, performance and in winning. Whereas a people oriented leader will concentrate more on interpersonal relationship.
A leader must possess certain characteristics which he wants to incorporate into his team. Discipline, self confidence etc. are the essential qualities of a leader. As he is the role model for the followers, his movement will be keenly watched by others. Because he is constantly being observed, a leader must be careful when doing everday tasks.
Leaders are made by hard work, not born that way. Important leadership characteristics are work ethic and intelligence. Being able to use common sense in accomplishing complex tasks is mandatory of a leader when making decisions on a given situation. Selecting the right strategy to tackle the situation is a must for a leader. Willingness to accept changes and flexibility to various situations are critical to leadership
Being able to motivate his team members to achieve success is another trait of a good leader. He must create excitement and confidence in accomplishing a task. His subordinates must feel as like he is easy to approach. A great leader is one who is a master in the art of communication. He must be ready to listen to the words of his team members. Essential in leadership is two way communication.
A leader must be able to push the entire effort of his team. Using the full potential of each member should be within his capacity. He must give opportunities to team members to prove their skills.
One who guides a team and not rules the team is a sign of a great leader. One of the crucial leadership characteristics is providing a trusting and open environment to the team members. Where they can learn and grow is the type of environment that should be provided to the team. A strong sense of vision is yet another characteristic of an excellent leader.
Apart from the above characteristics mentioned, a good leader must have the following characteristics:
1. Self esteem - A leader must have the important quality of self esteem to help face tough challenges.
2. Need to achieve - a leader must be goal oriented and must be able to strive hard to achieve the goals. He should be ready to take risks. A good leader is one who takes moderate and but not extreme risks.
3. Screening for opportunity - Having the ability to screen opportunities as useful and useless are a must for a leader. Any small opportunity missed by his competitors he quickly seizes.
4. Optimism - Being an optimist is a must characteristic. Have the ability to see problems as challenges. Views an obstacle as a way to a new direction.
5. Courage - one who has courage to face challenges is a trait of an outstanding leader. Risk taking is a crucial characteristic of a leader. Also, having the ability to make changes and to accept changes.
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