Leadership qualities are connected to who we are deep down, and because of that, every leader has a different style. Some leaders brandish their eccentric, charismatic selves and depend as much on their charm as they do their competency. Other leaders prefer to lead quietly, working their magic behind the scenes.
But whatever an individual’s preferred style is, leaders who generate high performance in individuals and organizations generally display the same five common practices of exemplary leaders:
1. Lead by example — Competent leaders establish principles, create standards and set examples that establish the environment for the way work will be pursued. Even in times of stress and upheaval, they demonstrate great leadership, and in the process remind their reports that it is often the simple things that restore order and balance, and help generate clear-minded solutions.
2. See what’s possible — Strong leaders see beyond the horizon of “what is” and ask, “what could be.” Whether through magnetic attraction, exemplary modeling or quiet persuasion, they enlist others in those dreams or inspire others to envision their own dreams.
3. Challenge the process. Leaders are always on the lookout for innovation. They are not afraid of experiment and risk, and they consider mistakes and failures as learning opportunities. They know that complacency breeds stagnation, and are always looking for a new and innovative way of accomplishing a task.
4. Create opportunities — Exemplary leaders foster collaboration and create and motivate extraordinary teams. They offer resources, establish necessary boundaries, and provide guidance—all in the name of creating opportunities for others to succeed.
5. Appeal to a person’s spirit — Leaders recognize the contributions and needs of the human psyche. They celebrate people’s accomplishments, give credit when due, say thank you, and keep hope and determination alive by making people feel special. They accomplish this by acknowledging how people have contributed to the group’s vision, mission, values and goals in a creative and sincere manner.
This post is brought to you by the good folks at Summit Assessment Solutions.
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