What makes a great leader

Well, I have had a very interesting time meeting many new people and learning the benefits of networking and also what a vast amount of knowledge is available to those who actually ask.
I was recently asked to name the qualities of a good leader and after giving this much thought, realised that some of the absolutely key attributes are very simple and easy to put into practise.
I have been honoured to mix and hear some of the best leaders in the world speak and advise and without a doubt all of them talk about their teams and how much they listen to them. Many of these men and women also base their success on their intuitive ability to select good people and openly admit that they alone could not have or know everything BUT by surrounding themselves with well educated experts and passionate business people, they have been able to focus on pure leadership drive and create inspirational vision which their teams implement superbly.
So.... with this in mind here are some tips on been a great leader

1. Listen to your clients, your business and your people

2. make clear and precise decisions based upon facts not emotion

3. connect emotionally and passionately to your people - they are the front line and connect to most of your client base

4. walk the talk - be seen and be seen to act

5. Don't expect everyone to agree or understand BUT ensure you do everything possible to make sure they do

6. Put a good communication plan in place and monitor it to ensure it moves with the business

7. appreciate your people - they make you successful

8. Don't be afraid to be different or inspirational - just do it

9. Make sure everyone who is 'on the bus' is making it a good trip and contributing the right skills

10. Don't be afraid to admit you don't know and then make sure you have the people who do

11. make the business goals and vision accessible at all levels

12. check and review - ensure a trustworthy advisor in place to give you accurate and objective overviews

13. size doesn't matter when you are a good leader - communicate and connect and use your people skills first and foremost

14. Leading does not always mean you have to be the only one stood at the front all the time - give your people space to grow and impress

There is nothing worse than leading from the front only to turn around and find yourself alone!

Comments

[Patrick King]

Tracy, this is an excellent post - one that I find truly inspiring. As environmentally aware as I may be, I still printed this out and made a permanent spot on my desk for it. :)

Thank you!!!

[Carrie]

I'm with Patrick! Excellent thoughts and as you have aptly put, it is more about the people you lead than it is you the leader.

[Michael Smith]

Hi Tracy, I like the post. Thanks for the link from LinkedIn. I am glad to see that I am doing some of your points already. I will work to apply the others.

Mike

[sheldon1creates]

thanks Mike and great to connect
tx