Posts Tagged ‘leadership characteristics’

Stepping into a leadership role is a significant step in just about every profession.  Initially you feel excited and energised and appear to be going along on a crest of a wave.  Sadly, much as we would like this feeling to last for ever, the realities of leading is somewhat different. So what are some of the realities of leading?

Reality 1: It is stressful

If you are leading, chances are you will experience pressure, worries, anxieties and maybe even stress.  As a leader you need to look after yourself if you are to perform at your optimal level.  Part of taking care of yourself is taking regular exercise and eating sensibly.  I know from experience just how difficult it can be but it is up to you to make powerful choices.

Reality 2: People will look to you

As the leader, people will look to you for a whole host of things.  These might include, for example:

• To provide clear direction
• To sort out problems
• To reassure people when they are worried or concerned
• To make things happen
• To communicate with them regularly and effectively

The question you need to be asking yourself is whether you are willing to take on this role.

Reality 3: The buck stops with you

Your job as a leader is to deliver results, consistently.  If you do you will be rewarded well and progress in your career.  If you don’t, chances are that you will find that you come under a lot of pressure to stand down or are may be removed from your post.

Are you happy with this level of risk?  If not, then you need to think about whether leading is for you.

Bottom Line – Leading at any time is challenging.  In the currently tough economic climate it is even tougher.  The big question you need to ask yourself is whether you are ready for the challenges of leading.

Being a leader can be rewarding and at the same time challenging.  Enthusiasm is a key characteristic of being a successful leader.  So what are some of the key benefits of being an enthusiastic leader?

Benefit 1: Others follow 

Who would you be most likely to follow.  Someone who is upbeat and focuses on results or someone who focuses on circumstances?

Benefit 2: People deliver more

Have you noticed that you deliver more and go that extra step when you are working alongside someone who is enthusiastic?   I know I have.

Benefit 3: You become a role model

People who want to achieve success, look to people who they already view as successful leaders to learn from them.  Enthusiastic leaders become a role model and someone to learn from.

Benefit 4: You build a reputation

As someone who finds a way of achieving and inspiring others even when the going gets tough.

Benefit 5: You achieve personal success

If you are enthusiastic, authentic, inspirational to others and have a reputation for getting results, personal success will follow.