What Makes You A Good Leader?
When was the last time you sat down and really thought about this? If you are like most people never or the last time you were preparing for a job interview.
When I am working with leaders and I pose this question initially they come up with all the buzz words. Someone who inspires, visionary, charismatic, expert to name just a few.
Often when we probe a bit further we really get to the heart of what people feel makes someone else a good leader.
So what are some of the common things that come up time and time again?
Someone Who Cares About Them
It’s claimed that people don’t leave an organisation because they don’t like the organisation but because they don’t like their boss.
Often it comes down to the boss only being interested in themselves, how they look and not caring about those on the team.
Someone Who Involves Them
People know that ultimately the leader has to make a decision. They may not always agree personally with the decision but they are much more likely to support it if they have been involved.
Someone Who Controls Their Emotions
Everyone knows that the boss is human and has worries and anxieties like everyone else. What they find difficult is when this results in them being defensive or even down right rude the moment anyone else raises concerns or questions.
Someone Who Is Willing To Listen
Every person has different experiences and as a result has different ideas. People like to be listened to and respect those that do this.
Someone Who Encourages and Supports Them
Every member of a team has their own aspirations and often want to grow and develop. A good leader will encourage and support them with real opportunities to grow and develop personally and professionally.
Someone Who Is Accountable
Leading brings both risks and rewards. You may want the rewards but not be willing to be accountable for results. Unfortunately if you do this people will just distance themselves, play it safe and take no chances.
Someone Who Knows Themselves
Every leader has areas of strength and areas that they struggle with. Good leaders focus on what they do well and build a team around them who have different skills and qualities rather than trying to be good at everything.
In many ways being a good leader is really continual work in progress. Take some time to think about what sets you apart as a leader.
About the Author Duncan Brodie
Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.