Effective Leadership Traits: Insights from Those You Lead

I wanted to share an aspect of leadership that I seen during my time serving multiple tours in Afghanistan. It became evident that the common mark of a good leader lies in their ability to build trust and unwaveringly support their team members they are leading, regardless of the circumstances. From my personal experiences being lead by some great leaders and some poor, I will delve into the significance of this trait and how it distinguishes exceptional leaders from the rest.

Military Leadership from My Perspective

Please let me clarify a few points. During my time in the Army, The unit I was in predominantly comprised of men. Hence, I often refer to everyone as men, lads, or blokes. Additionally, I do not intend to undermine my current leadership abilities. However, when I recognised these noteworthy traits, I held no rank within the organisation and was effectively just one of the blokes with zero leadership experience. However from this experience I have used these skills to become a solid leader that is respected across multiple businesses I operate in.

I want to stress that the observations I'm sharing are not definitive, but rather a recurring pattern noticed by myself and my fellow troops. Every remarkable leader I had the privilege to serve under possessed these qualities.

The Structure and Dynamics

I belonged to a squadron deployed in Afghanistan, consisting of six smaller six man teams, each comprising a commander, a second-in-command, and four air troopers. These 6 teams were overseen by a senior leader, with overall management of our unit falling under a Captain or WO2, holding the highest rank. As you can see here between myself and the top line of leaderships there is a lot of moving parts and leaders and management, this gave me a great opportunity to observe the dynamics, politics and how decisions, discussions and orders where given.

The Tell-tale Sign of a Good Leader

What immediately set apart a good leader in our eyes was their unwavering support for their team members. They had all the answers, made sound decisions, and guided us through any situation. The development of these traits demanded experience in the sense of "done this before".

Without previous experience, we could see leaders would struggle to make informed decisions under challenging circumstances, unless they had faced similar situations. This was clear when those who attained their positions solely through time served often relied on their subordinates for true guidance and leadership.

The Foundation of Trust

Trust became the linchpin of effective leadership. We placed our confidence in leaders who had our backs, making decisions that benefited us and the mission at hand. The true measure of trust lay in how leaders responded when we made mistakes or encountered obstacles.

A leader's immediate reaction revealed their commitment to their team. Did they defend us before knowing the full details? Did they support and stand up for us, even when we were in the wrong or without complete information? The best leaders would shield and protect us, offering us a chance to explain ourselves. Only after establishing the facts would they determine an appropriate course of action.

The Yes-Man Conundrum

On the other hand, poor leaders often fell into the category of "yes-men." They mindlessly accepted orders and tasks without advocating for their team members. This lack of support undermined trust and hindered the team's effectiveness. The best leaders never sought to please superiors at the expense of their teams. They understood the importance of backing their team members in all situations.

Applying Lessons to Civilian Life

While my experiences are rooted in the military, the lessons hold relevance in civilian life as well. Promotions based solely on tenure or personal connections can lead to leaders who lack the essential skills or experience to effectively support their teams. It is vital for organisations to promote individuals based on merit and leadership capabilities rather than relying solely on seniority.

Leadership in the Corporate World

I would be remiss not to mention the dynamics of leadership in the corporate world. The same principles apply—leaders must defend their team members and advocate for their interests. It begs the question: do leaders at higher levels deflect tasks and argue in favour of their teams, or do they merely comply with directives to please those higher up in the hierarchy?

Implementing Work-Based Programs for Leadership Development

In order to cultivate effective leaders who embody the principles of trust and unwavering support, organisations can introduce work-based programs specifically designed for promoted or potential leaders. These programs offer valuable opportunities for individuals to enhance their leadership skills, gain practical experience, and further build trust within their teams.

Furthermore, work-based programs allow emerging leaders to apply their newfound knowledge directly to their roles. Through hands-on experience and real-life challenges, participants can refine their leadership style and learn how to navigate complex situations while maintaining the trust and support of their team members. This practical approach fosters a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and expectations that come with leadership positions.

By investing in work-based programs, organisations demonstrate their commitment to developing leaders who prioritise trust and support. These programs create a positive feedback loop: as leaders gain new skills and experiences, they are better equipped to support their teams, fostering an environment where trust thrives.

Conclusion

Incorporating work-based programs into leadership development initiatives is a proactive step towards cultivating effective leaders who embody the principles of trust and unwavering support. By providing opportunities for aspiring and promoted leaders to enhance their skills, gain practical experience, and collaborate with mentors, organisations can empower leaders to effectively support their teams.

Leaders who have undergone these programs are better equipped to make informed decisions, navigate challenges, and defend their team members. Through their actions, they build trust, foster collaboration, and create an environment where individuals feel valued and supported.