There are plenty of people who possess excellent traits of being a leader, but don’t have the inner habits that create a powerful leadership persona.
In a simple sentence, the leaders’ traits and their personal habit don’t match. And this dichotomy leads to a contradictory witness value in the society.
A performing leader need not a leader in his personal capacity. Both are needed, and that is why leadership is a very different and difficult task.
Let us see some of the inner characteristics that form the person of the leader
1. Leaders are principled by nature
They start very small and believe in what they do. They never deviate from principles in their actions. And this character makes them highly trustworthy people in the society. They don’t demand respect, they earn it.
2. Leaders are approachable and easily accessible
They never consider themselves very important people in the society or in their work place. They don’t take credit by status and position. The are easy to approach and highly accessible, no matter how high they grow.
3. Leaders are sensitive people
Leaders anticipate and exhibit feelings and look after the needs of others. They are highly empathetic. aThey encourage with a touch, a handshake, a hug or a pat on the back. Their sensitivity is such that they will walk with their followers/team in worst and think moments of their life. They share in the burden of their teams. They carry their people in their hearts.
4. Leaders are grateful
Leaders acknowledge others for the work or task done. They don’t take credit for their own action. They acknowledge even for the smallest deed done to them. I have personally seen leaders who have grown in status and wealth, treating their workers at home or in office with tremendous courtesy and affection. No contribution will go unnoticed from a leader’s eye.
5. Leaders communicate the right way
Leaders learn to say things the right way. Leaders say things straight on the face. They don’t take sides, when it comes to communicating a message or taking a decision. They weigh the pros and cons of their actions, when it comes to communicating their thought. They own what they way. However they say it in a way that does not pose a threat or hurt any one’s sentiment.
6. They are flexible in relationship
Leaders don’t make unnecessary judgements in dealing with people. They accept people as they are. Their small gestures of a hello, a letter, a card or an email make everyone around them feel very comfortable. They never sulk in treating and greeting people with respect. They are flexible in their actions, however they never compromise on end justifying means.
7. They are great learners
Leaders are keen learners. They learn from experts with great humility and courage. They are open to feedback and give feedback without any duplicity and deceit. They make sure everyone is important in their relationship circle.
Q&A
- What are the personal qualities of a leader that you possess?
- How many of these qualities are brought to your notice by others?
- In what way, these qualities helped you to improve yourself and your tasks?
Elias Moses, Managing Next