What is it that makes a good leader? Is it the title? Is it experience? Is it people skills? What is it that makes some people stand out as having a mantle of leadership on them whether they have the role of leader or not?

Leadership can take many forms, but typically it often involves managing people- one of the most difficult of all tasks. It means coordinating and motivating the actions of others to achieve a common goal. A leader has to establish that goal, and gain the willing agreement of others to commit to, and work together towards that goal.

Let us look at some of the important qualities that are frequently found in good leadership. These qualities may be developed, and some may be a natural part of the leader’s character, and personality.

A good leader stands out as being an exemplary role model. A leader is known to be trustworthy and well recognized as a person who lives life with honesty and integrity. Great leaders are known for consistently ‘walking the talk’, and in doing so, model what their expectations are of their followers. By their example a good leader earns the right to take responsibility for others. Respect won this way forms the basis of true authority.

A good leader is confident and self assured, and thus inspires the confidence of the team in their leader. Great leaders have the ability to set direction, and at the same time, motivate team members to give their best to the required task.

Successful leaders are tolerant of ambiguity and remain calm, composed and steadfast to the main purpose. Storms, emotions, and crises come and go and a good leader takes these as part of the journey and keeps a cool head.

The leader’s enthusiasm and ‘can-do’ attitude is infectious to their followers. A good leader’s passion and commitment is not only to their position of leadership, but also to empowering the team towards accomplishing the task with excellence. Good leaders are not above the team, but are also an integral part of it. Despite their superior knowledge and experience, these leaders are not reluctant to get involved, and get their hands dirty in order to get the task completed, and meet deadlines.

A good leader is committed to excellence. Second best does not lead to success. The good leader not only maintains high standards, but also is proactive in raising the bar in order to achieve excellence in all areas.

These are some of the foundational qualities of good leadership.
Good leaders, even if they have natural aptitude in some of these qualities, are conscientious in developing and strengthening these qualities on a consistent basis.

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