The Signs of A Good Leader

Is it possible that everyone is a good leader? Are all managers good leaders? What does it take to be a good leader? All leaders are created differently but yet all have similar characteristics. Some people are leaders and aren’t aware of it because they don’t have the associated title. So what are the attributes and signs of a good leader?

First of all, let us understand that not all managers are good leaders. In today’s business world, managers tend to have numerous amounts of responsibilities on their plate. From reporting to evaluating employees to providing necessary training, their role is more geared toward organization and development. They have a department that must run well and results must be reported. A leader is the person in between the employees and the manager. Handling employees and the actual work load is often assigned to team leaders. A good manager is only as good as their leader who is only as good as their employees.

When it comes to managers and team leaders, everyone has probably come across the good, the bad and the ugly. But the signs of a good leader are hard to ignore.

1. A good leader will have a good attitude. They like what they are doing and tend to be nurturing to the group.

2. A good leader listens to what each individual has to say. This helps them discover any underlying problems or issues that may surface. They treat each one equally and fairly and they are non-judgmental.

3. They are always helpful without being overbearing. It is not their position to take over but to create an atmosphere of reaching goals. In the event of sudden, unusual happenings, they are ready to join the group and assist them in order to accomplish a task.

4. They provide guidance and understanding to each individual of the group as well as to the group as a whole. They show that they are committed by their words and deeds and how they handle situations.

5. They observe what goes on but they don’t jump to conclusions. They handle situations in a very diplomatic way and never foster resentment.

6. A good leader is one who brainstorms with their group to discover better ways of attaining goals. They encourage participation and learning from one another.

7. They will share their knowledge with the group without fear of losing their position. They also are able to admit that they are not perfect without losing their control of the group.

7. They have fun and laughs with their group. They create a comfortable atmosphere where everyone is eager to do their best and everyone is accepted.

8. They encourage instead of putting down. They guide instead of reprimanding. They support instead of turning away.

The signs that someone is a good leader will always be easy to spot. They are the ones surrounded by a supportive group that cannot be broken up easily. Because a good leader is honorable, trustworthy, caring and helpful, they sometimes create a tight-knit group that follow them wherever they go.

Maybe you know a good leader and followed them? Or maybe you have had the experience of a not-so-good leader. Please join us to share your thoughts and ideas and experience.

Submitted by Rosemary