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Infographic: 5 traits all great leaders share
Being a leader is a challenging job. You must be able to inspire people to follow you, motivate the team, lead with vision, and build strong relationships. So, what makes a great leader, and what do all great leaders have in common? Below, we will discuss the top 5 traits all great leaders share, but first, it's essential to understand what defines a leadership trait and why these traits are important.
What are leadership traits?
Leadership traits are the behaviors, attitudes, and characteristics that define a leader. Some are innate, while others can be learned and developed.
Leaders have different personalities and styles. Some are charismatic, and others are more analytical. Some are more talkative, and others are more introverted. Some are more formal, and others are more casual.
However, studies show that certain traits are expected from everyone in leadership positions. For example, one study revealed that every leader should possess "soft skills" such as empathy and humility.
Another study showed that having a clear sense of purpose is crucial for 82% of organizational leaders.
5 traits all great leaders share
How do you know you have a great leader? In general, great leaders are enthusiastic, honest, genuine, self-aware, inclusive, compassionate, authentic, caring, and much more. However, all great leaders share a few very specific traits, including:
1. Focused
The best leaders are laser-focused on their goals. They know where they want to go and how to get there. They have a clear vision, and they are constantly striving to improve themselves and the company.
Focus is one of the most important traits a leader can have. It allows them to make the right decisions, inspire others, and strategize more effectively.
Being focused also means that leaders are not distracted by the things that are not important; they are not easily swayed by other people or circumstances.
If you want to be a great leader, focus on what you can control and what matters, and leave the rest alone. Your aim should always be to improve your business and the lives of your employees.
2. Deliberate
A great leader is deliberate and intentional. They make the right decisions, take calculated risks, and work hard to improve themselves and the company.
Deliberate leaders make decisions and execute them. They are not afraid to make mistakes, but they know how to learn from them. Deliberate leaders are also willing to take calculated risks to achieve their goals.
They know what they want, and they work hard to get it.
3. Open-minded
Open-minded leaders are willing to listen to different ideas and opinions and examine their own beliefs and biases.
Open-minded leaders also recognize that they do not have all the answers. They are willing to acknowledge their own weaknesses and learn from others.
This trait allows diverse opinions to be heard and results in a more effective decision-making process.
4. Accountable
Accountable leaders are willing to take responsibility for their actions, accept the consequences of their decisions, and change their behavior when the situation requires it.
Accountable leaders take ownership of their actions. They are not afraid to accept blame when things go wrong.
They are also willing to self-evaluate. They make their decisions based on facts, not emotions – an essential trait when trying to build a successful business.
5. Consistent
Leaders who are consistent in what they say and do are much more effective. This is because they are more likely to follow through on their words. Consistent leaders are often seen as more trustworthy and reliable.
Consistent leaders are honest and transparent. They are not afraid to tell the truth, and they are open to criticism.
Becoming a great leader requires continued learning
As a leader, you must be willing to learn and grow, listen to feedback from your team and customers, take risks, and make mistakes.
Without learning, you cannot grow. Without growth, you cannot become a great leader.
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