One of the key aspects of being a good leader is the ability to work with and relate to others. There are ten traits that characterize successful leadership relating and communicating with other people:
1. Availability
A good leader is available and in touch with people. Important leadership skill is the ability to recognize needs and be able to respond to them quickly and in the moment.
2. Facilitating Harmonious Relationships
A good leader realizes the importance of harmonious relationships and is proactive in creating a harmonious atmosphere. Successful results are born out of harmony rather than conflict. Good leadership will prioritize keeping conflict and disharmony to the minimum.
3. Approachability
A good leader is approachable and has an open-door policy. Good leadership creates an environment where openness and honesty can occur in an atmosphere of fairness rather than judgment.
4. Appropriate use of authority
Sensitivity to the proper use, and conversely the misuse, of their authority, is the whole mark of good leadership. A good leader will not use their position of authority for self-gratification and promotion or in a controlling and domineering manner. Successful leaders use their positional power with wisdom and sensitivity to the appropriateness of the circumstances.
5. Confidentiality
Good leaders conduct conferences and meetings in an atmosphere of trust. They display appropriate confidentiality and respect towards others and about others.
6. Self Motivated
Good leaders set and use goals to motivate themselves and others. They understand the importance of personal and professional development. Successful leaders do what is necessary to upgrade their knowledge and skills and be on the cutting edge in their field. Successful leaders not only motivate themselves in personal development but also motivate those around them.
7. Provide Support
Good leaders are able to provide emotional support for those for whom they are responsible. They recognize the importance of encouragement and inspiring confidence and also give recognition of a job well done.
8. Maintaining Motivation and Team Spirit
A good leader provides incentives and motivators to improve the performance of their employees to challenge them to maintain quality results.
9. Clear Communication
A good leader is an excellent communicator. Their leadership involves communicating clearly the objectives and procedures required of a task. They set clear, attainable, and measurable goals.
10. An Understanding of Group Dynamics
A good leader understands the dynamics of group relationships. Successful leaders have the ability to lead groups without aggravating conflict and minimizing disharmony. They are inclusive and skilled in creating a sense of team unity. They are adept at balancing the strengths and weaknesses of the group for the best results.
