You’ve probably heard the expression “born leader.” The phrase implies that the qualities that make a good leader are innate—you’re either born with the skills it takes to be a leader, or you’re not. And it’s true that certain traits tend to be innate—such as charisma, humility, and a sense of humor. However, two research studies—one study with male twins and another with female twins—found that only one-third of the variance in leadership qualities is associated with heredity. Show
In other words, many key leadership qualities can be learned and improved over time, such as effective communication, goal-setting, and strategic thinking. As a result of these findings, “the foundation of Northeastern’s Master of Science in Organizational Leadership is that leaders can be developed,” says Teresa Goode, EdD, associate teaching professor for the leadership program at Northeastern University. The program emphasizes experiential learning, or the acquisition of knowledge through observation and experimentation in a professional setting, as a key method to help students develop essential leadership qualities. Many organizations, including higher education institutions like Northeastern, increasingly recognize the benefits of this approach and have put it to use to develop the leaders of tomorrow. “Instead of traits, our program is competency-based,” Goode adds. “We break these key competencies down to behaviors that students can observe, practice, and get feedback on.” What Is A Successful Leader?There are several essential qualities that mold a successful leader for any organization. A well-rounded leader is capable of providing guidance and inspiration to everyone around them. Their leadership style is made up of authority as well as a positive attitude to foster their team members’ qualities and create a work environment where they can be open, honest, and productive. Along with being authoritative and approachable, effective leaders possess a growth mindset. This means they’re always focused on their company or organization’s common goal and overall mission. Download Our Free Guide to Effective Leadership in the 21st CenturyLearn how to develop the skills required to lead effectively in today’s digital, global world. DOWNLOAD NOW What Are The 5 Most Important Qualities of a Leader?Successful leaders demonstrate the following five leadership qualities in their personal and professional lives, inspiring others to take action and set a course for future success. True leaders also practice key behaviors on a regular basis in order to strengthen the positive impact of these qualities. 1. They are self-aware and prioritize personal development.Effective leaders focus on developing their emotional intelligence, Goode says. Leaders that work to refine this quality are more adaptive, resilient, and accepting of feedback from others. They also practice active listening, are open to change, and are capable of effective communication. How To Develop Self-Awareness:The following behaviors will help you focus on your self-awareness and personal development to develop this important leadership quality.
2. They focus on developing others.This leadership quality builds on the principles of the situational leadership theory, which suggests that effective leaders adapt to whether an individual or group is ready, willing, and able to take specific action. Delegating, coaching, and mentoring are important tasks for situational leadership, Goode says. How To Develop Others:These behaviors will help you demonstrate leadership ability by developing others within an organization.
3. They encourage strategic thinking, innovation, and action.“As a leader, you have to look forward. You have to think about where the organization is going,” Goode says. Leaders must consider internal organizational factors, such as product roadmaps and staffing needs, as well as external factors, including government regulations and technology advancement, when making strategic business decisions. How To Develop Strategic Thinking:Emphasizing the following behaviors will help develop leadership qualities related to strategic thinking, innovation, and action.
4. They are ethical and civic-minded.Strong leaders consider the ethical consequences of the decisions that they make—for both their customers and their teams. How To Be Aware Of Ethical Practices:Taking these behaviors into account will increase your awareness of ethical practice and civic-mindedness, which reflects personal concern for the benefit of your entire organization and the community as a whole.
5. They practice effective cross-cultural communication.Respected leaders are able to clearly communicate with individuals, business units, the entire company, and to stakeholders outside the organization. In an increasingly global economy, leaders must also acknowledge and respect different communication traditions, Goode says. How To Develop Effective Communication:Practicing these behaviors will help leaders increase the effectiveness of their communication.
Want more actionable tips on how to improve these and other leadership skills? Download our free guide below. About Brian EastwoodBrian Eastwood is a freelance writer with more than 15 years of experience as a journalist. In his career, he has covered small-town politics, enterprise information technology, leadership strategy, and a variety of healthcare topics. Related Articles9 Tips for New Managers to SucceedWhat Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Leadership?3 People-Centric Strategies for Effective LeadershipDid You Know?86% of businesses worldwide say developing new leaders is their organization's #1 challenge—and only 15% are confident in their current leadership pipelines. (Deloitte) Graduate Programs in LeadershipNortheastern's leadership programs prepare graduates for the challenges and opportunities associated with leading in a global world. What are the qualities that a president must possess to be an effective leader?Some common leadership qualities that good Presidents appear to have are the following:. A strong vision for the country's future. ... . An ability to put their own times in the perspective of history.. Effective communication skills.. The courage to make unpopular decisions.. Crisis management skills.. Character and integrity.. What are your top 7 qualities of an effective leader?7 Qualities of a Good Leader. You Are Focused. ... . You Are Mindful. ... . You Are Deliberate. ... . You Are Consistent. ... . You Are Strategic. ... . You Are Willing to Admit When You Are Wrong. ... . You Are Teachable.. What are the 12 qualities of a leader?12 Characteristics of Effective Leadership. Influence. Effective leaders are able to influence others to get things accomplished. ... . Help Others See the BIG Picture. ... . Gives Others the Benefit of the Doubt. ... . Credibility. ... . Teacher. ... . Master Delegator. ... . Empower Others. ... . Integrity.. What are the 6 qualities of a good president?9 Things Great Presidents and Leaders Have In Common. They provide clarity. ... . They listen and allow others to be heard. ... . They value conversations. ... . They model desired behaviors. ... . They encourage healthy conflict. ... . They create an environment of emotional safety. ... . They have high levels of self-awareness. ... . They empower others.. |