Success Does Not Define a Great Leader
In business, we are often inspired by the leaders of successful profitable businesses. We assume that the CEO’s and Managing Directors are the great leaders behind the success simply due to their position and wealth. We assume they possess qualities that led to their position today, however, profitability and successfulness do not determine great leadership.
What is a Great Leader?
A leader is irrelevant without a team to spearhead. The abilities of a team depend on its leadership, good leadership will produce a highly motivated and passionate team; bad leadership will result in a dysfunctional team with a lack of productivity. There needs to be a balance between a kind, forgiving leader and a strict autocratic one – great leadership is that balance.
A great leader can possess an array of personality traits and abilities, however, it’s how they interact with their team that determines the ability of their leadership. By far the most influential act is leading by example, psychology suggests that the people we respect or look up to are the people who we imitate or easily pick up habits from. However, before that can happen there needs to be that initial respect, and respect has to be earned, not given.
How do I Earn Respect?
Earning respect among peers can be different depending on who your peers are and what interests them, but in business, there is a commonality. In business, every member is an interested party. The state of their work directly impacts their lifestyle and mental state. Some may see work as a hindrance, most of these people are working in the wrong environment or atmosphere. However, there is a silver lining, these employees may just need a change in job role or simply a chat to see the reason behind their approach to work.
In business, most people respect leaders who are honest, understanding, passionate, tenacious and positive in their work. Leaders who are patient and hopeful, willing to dedicate themselves fully to their work. An honest leader is a realistic one, someone who is holistic in their approach towards their business position. An understanding leader is empathetic to their employees and can understand varied cultures and environments. A passionate leader is enthusiastic about their work, they have a genuine belief in their business ability and are keen on achieving them. A tenacious leader is determined, someone who will explore every route possible to achieve an objective. Finally, a positive leader is vibrant, someone who sees the light in the dark, the opportunities amongst threats, motivating everyone.
Conclusion
A leader is an individual that possesses these qualities and has a team to engage with. Leaders may not even be in leadership positions but have the capability to do so. Not all leaders are necessarily business experts or high-level managers – they are people with a certain outlook on their environment. A certain outlook can translate failures into successes.
Written By Leyla Hussein