In leadership, the best qualities often go unnoticed but are crucial for success.
Exploring what makes a good leader reveals traits that go beyond titles, position and power, focusing more on character and one’s belief system. Integrity is at the core of great leadership, guiding and role modelling behaviour even when no one’s watching. True leaders value honesty, respect, and responsibility.
In an article by PwC on the Six paradoxes of leadership, effective leadership is described as being similar to walking a tightrope. It states that leaders must be able to find the right balance between being in control yet humble, decisive yet inclusive, and strategic yet adaptable. By understanding and addressing these paradoxes, leaders can create environments that encourage and fuel growth, resilience, and success.
A good leader is not someone who talks a lot, but someone who listens well and pays attention to their team's opinions. They create an atmosphere where ideas are welcomed, different views are respected, and everyone feels heard. Instead of surrounding themselves with similar people, they gather diverse talents that shine in their own ways.
Simon Sinek once said,
"Leadership is about taking care of those you lead."
Good leaders embrace this idea, supporting the growth of their team members. At the heart of effective leadership lies a servant mindset. Genuine leaders are motivated by a desire to serve others and advance the greater good, rather than personal ambition or ego. By prioritising the needs of their team, they earn loyalty, leave a lasting positive impact and share the path to success.
Humility, not just intelligence, defines a good leader. They admit their limitations and share their doubts while staying committed to progress. They see setbacks as opportunities for innovation and improvement.
Good leaders communicate openly with their team, fostering trust and collaboration. They understand that communication isn't just about sharing information but also about building connections and inspiring action. A leader's best moments come from understanding, showing empathy, and being authentic.
Simon Sinek sums it up:
"Leadership isn't a title, it's a choice to care for those around us."
By embodying these values, good leaders make a lasting impact on organisational success.
Simon Sinek is an author, speaker, and organisational consultant well known for his work on leadership and motivation including his interventions related to “The importance of great leaders being inspirational”. He is the author of several best-selling books including "Start With Why" and "Leaders Eat Last," which talk about the importance of leadership and building trust.
This article was written by Emma Micallef, Senior HR Executive.
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