Characteristics of Great Leaders

I have recently been reminded of just how impactful one thoughtless decision of a trusted leader can have upon the very heart and soul of an individual. With this example at the forefront of my thoughts, I began to reflect and focus on an important question. What exactly does a great leader look like? Below is a list of ten characteristics that great leaders share.

• Visionary: Great leaders have a clear and compelling vision of where they want to take their organization or team.

• Integrity: They are honest, ethical, and trustworthy, and they lead by example.

• Empathy: They have the ability to understand and connect with the people they lead, and they are able to create a positive and supportive work environment.

• Decisiveness: They are able to make tough decisions quickly and confidently, even in the face of uncertainty.

• Communication skills: They are able to communicate their vision and ideas clearly and effectively, and they are able to inspire and motivate others to follow them.

• Adaptability: They are able to adapt to changing circumstances and are willing to change course when necessary.

• Strategic thinking: They have a long-term perspective and are able to develop and execute strategies that lead to success.

• Humility: They are willing to admit when they are wrong and are open to feedback and criticism from others.

• Courage: They are willing to take risks and make difficult decisions, even when it's not easy or popular all through the lens of what is ethically right.

• Empowering: They create an environment that empowers and enables their team members to reach their full potential. Understanding that they themselves may sacrifice to ensure this outcome.

As I sit and think back on my career, I have had the opportunity to work for and with some amazing leaders. They have taught me valuable lessons that I have carried with me into my own leadership roles. I will never be able to express just how grateful I am to have had them as a part of my professional journey. They truly embodied these characteristics.

I have also had the opportunity to work for and with some down-right selfish and manipulative leaders. Guess what? They have also taught me valuable lessons that I have carried with me into my own leadership roles. As hurt at the time as I may have been to witness, and in some cases been on the receiving end of their carnage, today I am also grateful that I had them as a part of my professional journey. For they taught me what not to do.

To the young professionals of the world I say, take every lesson taught, whether good or bad, and learn from it. Learn what to do. Learn what not to do. All of these lessons have the ability to make you the kind of leader that tomorrow needs.

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