Leadership Characteristics

Leadership characteristics are not simple to define. Each leader has his own characteristics. Exemplary leaders share some common features. Influencing team members to work hard and stay committed to achieve the overall organizational goals are necessary attributes of a leader. A leader falls into to categories, task oriented or people oriented. Interested in training, performance and in winning are the characteristics of a task oriented leader. While concentrating more on interpersonal relationship are the features of a people oreinted leader.

A leader must possess certain characteristics which he wants to incorporate into his team. Discipline, self confidence etc. are the essential qualities of a leader. As he is the role model for the followers, his movement will be keenly watched by others. Because he is constantly being observed, a leader must be careful when doing everday tasks.

Leaders are not born but made by hard work. Hard work and intelligence are important leadership characteristics. A leader must make decisions after analyzing each and every aspect of the situation and must be able to use common sense in accomplishing complex tasks. He must also know how to select the right strategy to tackle the situation. Adaptability to various situations and willingness to accept changes are crucial to leadership.

Being able to motivate his team members to achieve success is another trait of a good leader. He must generate excitement and confidence in completing a task. His subordinates must feel as like he is easy to approach. The art of communication and the ability to be a good listener is one some his greatest assets. Essential in leadership is two way communication.

Pushing the entire effort of his team is a must for any leader. Using the full potential of each member should be within his capacity. To prove their skills, he must give opportunities to each team member.

One who guides a team and not rules the team is a sign of a great leader. One of the crucial leadership characteristics is providing a trusting and open environment to the team members. Where they can learn and grow is the type of environment that should be provided to the team. A strong sense of vision is yet another characteristic of an excellent leader.

Apart from the above characteristics mentioned, a good leader must have the following characteristics:

1. Self esteem - To help face tough challenges a leader must possess the important quality of self esteem.

2. Need to achieve - a leader must be goal oriented and must be able to strive hard to achieve the goals. Taking risks is in his nature. A good leader is one who takes moderate and but not extreme risks.

3. Screening for opportunity - Having the ability to screen opportunities as useful and useless are a must for a leader. He must also be able to grasp any small opportunity missed by his competitors.

4. Optimism - a good leader must be an optimist. He should be able to see problems as challenges. A great leader will always view an obstacle as a way to a new direction.

5. Courage - one who has courage to face challenges is a trait of an outstanding leader. Risk taking is a crucial characteristic of a leader. Also, having the ability to make changes and to accept changes.

About the Author

Wanting to develop into a more successful manager, then read these pieces of writing on Leadership Characteristics and Charismatic Leadership. These will certainly aim you in the right direction.

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