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Great leadership goes beyond ability to manage people
Great leadership after all, goes much, much beyond the ability to manage people, lead people, or even motivate them. There are so many subtler shades that go beyond the obvious. Leadership is like a kaleidoscope that is forever changing. Every time you turn it around you discover something new and fascinating. You may have a tough time defining leadership in a few words, yet it is one of those things you know when you see it. American Airlines chairman Ed Brennan knows a t
hing or two about leadership. In a speech, he simply, yet effectively drove home the point when he said, "I don’t know if I can define leadership, but I know when I’ve been led."
There are many qualities that contribute to effective leadership, and it may not be possible to elaborate on all of them. However, here are a few lesser-known qualities of great leaders, qualities that may not be immediately apparent, but nevertheless are critical for their success.
Integrity
A leader without integrity may be able to get things done through power and compulsion, but he will never win the trust and respect of his people. Even a single breach of integrity can leave a permanent scar, violate trust and break down unity within the team. Leaders who lead with integrity and consistently adhere to their values and code of conduct will well and truly inspire their people to follow in their footsteps.
Self-awareness
Although self-awareness is seldom mentioned in the list of desirable leadership qualities, it is an attribute that is central to good leadership. Leaders are often faced with the dilemmas and challenges of making decisions and ethical choices, and hence it is very important that they exhibit a high degree of self-awareness. Good leaders constantly increase their level of self-awareness by welcoming and soliciting feedback, by asking thoughtful questions, and by listening without attempting to defend or justify.
Commitment
Leadership depends less on power and authority, than it does on one’s ability to walk the talk, and live with its consequences. Great leaders show passionate commitment and tenacious determination in achieving their goals. They are not afraid of taking on new responsibilities, making sacrifices, and putting others before themselves. They never dither in the face of obstacles, and refuse to be cowed down by failure. It takes a committed leader to guide a committed team.
Empathy
Empathy is an important attribute of effective leaders. Empathy allows us to build trust, and offers an insight into the feelings and thoughts of others. It sharpens our human touch and enriches our decisions. Leaders who are genuinely and consistently empathetic forge strong positive connections with the people they lead.
Vision
Along with the ability to envisage and articulate a vision, a true leader needs to be able to turn it in to a shared aspiration. A visionary leader sees where our eyes cannot reach, and when he shares it with us, he not only inspires enthusiasm, belief, commitment and excitement for his vision, he also empowers and enriches us in the process.
Admit mistake
A willingness to accept mistakes and criticism is a hallmark of leadership and influence. A true leader will admit a mistake when he makes one and then look for ways to improve.
Remember, a leader who accepts that he is infallible builds loyalty and is perceived as more real and down to earth by his followers.
Whether you are a corporate head, business owner or a team leader, in order to be able to do full justice to your role, these are certain qualities that you need to cultivate.
Commit to these qualities of effective leadership, and put them into practice, and you will have taken the right steps towards becoming an inspirational leader.
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BINDU SRIDHAR
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