Leadership Characteristics

“A good leader takes a little more than his share of the blame, a little less than his share of the credit.” - Arnold Glasow

Leaders have the authority of knowledge. Leaders have demonstrated ability/talent that colleagues and subordinates admire. To be a leader you cannot just be a talker ... you must bring something special to the situation.

Leaders are visionaries. Leaders see things, that others see as ordinary, in a way as to make them extraordinary. Leaders can make the complex seem simple. Leaders look beyond today.

Leaders produce positive change. Change is seen by leaders as an opportunity and a challenge. Leaders always question why things work, or are done, the way they are.

Leaders give their all. Leaders do not hold back. They do not allow themselves to be sidetracked and always exhibit a high degree of energy and ability.

Leaders are good listeners. They are able to really hear what people are saying and empower people to follow their vision.

“A good listener is not only popular everywhere, but after a while he knows something.” - Wilson Mizner

Leaders are good communicators. They are clear and concise, complete and consistent. They create enthusiasm and excitement.

Leaders are students. They never stop learning and growing. They are willing, and able, to learn from their mistakes. Leaders read ... read ... and read!

Leaders take risks. They create change which requires risk because they visualize how things can be done better.

Leaders are ethical. People will not follow someone who cannot be trusted, consistently.

Leaders are optimistic. Trust and hope are the basis on which leaders empower other people. They believe (and have proven) they are winners!