We sat down with one of our executive recruiters with over twenty years’ experience to learn how to spot the qualities of a good leader. Here is what they had to say:
Leadership traits are not one-size-fits-all; in fact, research shows that the best leaders tailor their leadership style to the situation. Some leadership characteristics, however, are consistent across the board. Leaders understand what needs to be done and motivate others to work towards a common goal. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said it best:
“A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.”
Across industries and experiences, a recent discussion among clients and leaders resulted in these five leadership traits:
1. Integrity: A good leader acts with fairness, honesty and commitment. A great leader also inspires others to embrace these qualities. Trust and respect go a very long way; if others see you as a role model, they will follow you. If they suspect that your motives are merely self-interested, they will be less inclined to back you. Be a generous mentor and commit to the success of each individual on your team.
2. Vision: To lead effectively, you need to define and share your vision. Effective leaders can see the big picture. Learn to communicate why you think the task at hand is important, and why each person’s job is crucial to the group’s long-term success. Set measurable goals and milestones. By articulating your passion – not only when things are going well, but also during times of difficulty– you’ll inspire dedication in others.
3. Self-Awareness: Knowing your strengths and addressing your weaknesses are crucial leadership traits. Be confident in the things you can do well and consider the areas where you need to improve. The best leaders admit and learn from their mistakes and aren’t afraid of being corrected. They know what others think of them and understand how they contribute to the organization as a whole.
