The number one question I get as leadership speaker and executive coach is, “What are the common characteristics of a good leader?” Every characteristic I share all comes down to one simple truth: a good leader can get the job done but a great leader leads with purpose and inspires others to live in their purpose, too.
There are a vast array of skills, talents and traits that make great leaders; everyone’s short list should include the following three items:
Great leaders have a heart for their team.
It is impossible to lead people and not know their unique story. Great leaders make time to get to know the individuals on their team and they do their best to make things better for them.
Great leaders believe in the people they lead.
They believe in their teams’ ability to perform. They know they can count on their team when things go wrong; they believe their people are the best in the world.
Great leaders are accountable.
They take full responsibility for everything their team does and doesn’t accomplish. A great leader will never place blame or try to shift their responsibility on someone else.
You may be patting yourself on the back for checking everything off the list. Conversely, you may have noted where your leadership skills have fallen short.
Either way, investing in your leadership skills is always a wise move.
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