Great leaders share many common traits, and while the criteria for leadership can vary, most effective leaders have a similar set of skills.
The question is, how can you take your leadership skills to new levels? Let’s dive deep into these essential traits for becoming a leader people regard as ‘great’.
Common leadership traits
1. Self-Motivation
Being self-motivated is crucial. As a leader, you must be a self-starter, pushing yourself to take action and move towards your goals. Leaders who are driven to get things done inspire their teams to do the same by role-modelling this behaviour.
2. Delegation
Effective delegation is vital. Many leaders struggle with handing over tasks, often trying to do everything themselves. Great leaders surround themselves with skilled people, clearly define their responsibilities, and then step aside to let their team share the workload. If you get in the habit of delegating, you might be surprised at how your team steps up and takes ownership.
3. Communication
Communicating effectively is essential because nobody can read your mind. Leaders must connect with their audience and help them understand the vision you have for the organisation. Providing regular updates and keeping everyone on the same page is key to maintaining motivation and ensuring everyone understands the goals.
4. Developing others
Leaders should focus on developing those around them. Sharing your expertise, learnings and stories helps others grow. It’s essential to develop your team’s skills, which in turn benefits the organisation. A leader’s job is to foster growth in their team by passing on what they know, not withholding it.
5. Commitment
A leader’s level of commitment sets the tone for the entire organisation. Leaders must set high expectations and demonstrate true commitment. This behaviour inspires others to rise to the challenge and commit fully to their roles.
You’ve heard the saying “The fish rots from the head.” The example you set will be reflected in your company culture.
6. Inspiring Others
Great leaders know how to inspire others to do their best. While leaders aren’t there to motivate people, you can inspire them to reach their full potential. Starting with a few individuals; creating a positive impact can have a ripple effect throughout the organisation.
7. Clear focus
Having a clear focus is essential for achieving goals. Leaders must know what they want and where they’re going. Sharing a clear vision with the team ensures everyone understands the direction and works towards common objectives.
8. Demonstrating respect
Respect is fundamental. Leaders should treat everyone fairly and avoid playing favourites. Demonstrating respect starts with respecting yourself and others, which in turn earns respect from your team.
9. Confidence
Confidence is a powerful trait in a leader. A confident leader is seen as capable and trustworthy, so be comfortable with your skills and the plan you have. Lack of self-confidence can undermine trust in your vision and judgement, but it’s also crucial to balance confidence with humility and avoid arrogance.
10. Decisiveness
Decisiveness is a crucial leadership trait and there’s nothing worse than a leader who won’t make a decision. Leaders must make tough decisions with courage and take responsibility for the outcomes. Being clear on values and focus helps make quick and confident decisions. Indecisiveness can weaken leadership and erode trust.
Are you a great leader?
Great leaders share common characteristics, but these can always be developed. Even if you don’t currently possess all these leadership traits, you can grow your capacity to be an effective leader. Look at the top critical competencies of great leaders and work on developing them in yourself.
Want to grow your capacity to be a world-class leader? Contact us today.
