Characteristics of Leadership

by Jeffrey Smith

Defining leadership characteristics are not simple. This is because each leader has his own characteristics.Influencing team members to work hard and stay committed to achieve the overall organizational goals are necessary attributes of a leader. A leader falls into to categories, 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. The essential qualities of a leader are discipline, self confidence etc. As he is the role model for the followers, his movement will be keenly watched by others. Consequently, when performing everday task a leader must be careful, becasue he is constantly be observed.

Leaders are not born but made by hard work. Hard work and intelligence are important leadership characteristics. A leader must make decisions after analyzing each and every aspect of the situation and must be able to use common sense in accomplishing complex tasks. He must also know how to select the right strategy to tackle the situation. Adaptability to various situations and willingness to accept changes are crucial 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. He should have the capacity to use the full potentiality of each member. 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.

A good leader must have the following characteristics, aside from the above characteristics mentioned:

1. Self esteem - To help face tough challenges a leader must possess the important quality of self esteem.

2. Need to achieve - being goal oriented and striving hard to achieve the goals is a must traits for a leader. Taking risks is in his nature. One who takes moderate and but not extreme risks is the mark of a good leader.

3. Screening for opportunity - Having the ability to screen opportunities as useful and useless are a must for a leader. He must also be able to grasp any small opportunity missed by his competitors.

4. Optimism - a good leader must be an optimist. He should be able to see problems as challenges. A great leader will always view 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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