Qualities of Leadership

? Enthusiasm. Can you think of any leader who lacks

enthusiasm? It is very hard to do so, isn’t it?

? Integrity. This is the quality that makes people trust

you. And trust is essential in all human relationships

– professional or private. ‘Integrity’ means both

personal wholeness and adherence to values outside

yourself – especially goodness and truth.

? Toughness. Leaders are often demanding people,

uncomfortable to have around because their

standards are high. They are resilient and tenacious.

Leaders aim to be respected, but not necessarily

popular.

? Fairness. Effective leaders treat individuals differently

but equally. They do not have favorites. They

are impartial in giving rewards and penalties for

performance.

? Warmth. Cold fish do not make good leaders.

Leadership involves your heart as well as your mind.

Loving what you are doing and caring for people are

equally essential.

? Humility. This is an odd quality, but characteristic

of the very best leaders. The opposite to humility

is arrogance. Who wants to work for an arrogant

manager? The signs of a good leader are a willingness

to listen and a lack of an overweening ego.

? Confidence. Confidence is essential. People will sense

whether or not you have it. So developing self-confidence

is always the preliminary to becoming a

leader. But don’t let it become overconfidence, the

first station on the track leading to arrogance.

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