10 Characteristics of a Good Leader

                 
           
                   A leader must not only have an in-depth knowledge about the thing he/she is leading for, but must also possess special characteristics that will help him/her become a great leader and produce a winning team. In some people, these characteristics are naturally found in them; however, these characteristics can also be developed and strengthened.

Here are the ten foundational characteristics to good leadership:

(1) Great Communicator
     A good leader has effective communication skills. He/She is a great orator and persuader. A good leader is very comfortable with public speaking, and is able to clearly articulate himself/herself.

(2) Enthusiastic
     A good leader is enthusiastic about his/her work, and also about his/her role as a leader. Leader needs to be a source of inspiration, and be a motivator towards the required action. Although the responsibilities and roles of a leader may be different, the leader needs to be a part of team working as hard as others, towards the goal. Leaders should not be afraid to roll up their sleeves and get dirty. 
   
(3) Believes in Excellency
    A good leader is committed to excellence. He/She not only maintains high standards, but also is proactive in raising the bar to achieve excellence in all areas.

(4)Passionate
    A good leader is passionate about whatever he/she is focused on and believe in taking action.
 
(5) Observant
    A good leader, as well as keeping the main goal in focus, is able to think analytically. Not only does a good leader view situation as a whole, but is able to break it down into sub parts for closer inspection. Not only keeps the goal in view, but a good leader can break it down into manageable steps and make progress towards it.

(6) Respectful to others
    A good leader values and respects the views of the team members. A good leader listens to all ideas presented by the group and gives everyone a fair chance to express ideas.

(7) Bold and daring
    A good leader needs to function in an orderly and purposeful manner in situations of uncertainty. People look to the leader during the times of uncertainty, and find reassurance and security when the leader portrays confidence and positive demeanor. A good leader need to be tolerant of ambiguity, and remain calm, composed, and steadfast to the main purpose.


(8) Trust worthy
    The most successful leader is the one that is able to gain the trust of colleagues, employees, and stakeholders. A leader needs to be trusted and be known to live his/her life with honesty and integrity. True authority is born from respect for the good character and trustworthiness of the person who leads.


(9) Confident
    A good leader is confident. In order to lead and set direction, a leader needs to appear confident as a person and in the leadership role. Such a person inspires confidence in others, and draws out the trust and best efforts of the team to complete the task as well. A leader who conveys confidence towards the proposed objective inspires the best effort from the team members.


(10) Responsible
     A good leader will take responsibility when things do not go according to plan or when a project fails. Good leader always acknowledges the team members.