What makes an outstanding leader? Why are some leaders listened to and followed religiously while others even with greater ideas and better visions don’t succeed in leading? “Effective leadership is not so much an art as it is a science” claims David J. Lieberman, the author of “Get anyone to do anything”. The skills for the making of an effective leader can be learned and applied through a series of psychological and mental techniques.
This article will focus on qualities of effective leaders and the role of leaders in today’s vibrant and competitive business world.
Ability to conceptualize
A successful leader can recognize patterns and concepts and understand the relationship between different patterns. Creative mind of an effective leader can interpret concepts and convert them into practical tools.
Proactivity
Effective leaders understand proactivity in the sense of “ability to choose” and therefore take responsibility for their actions, emotions, decisions and occasional setbacks. Proactive people make successful leaders as they are driven by their values (Mission statement in business) rather than society, environment or circumstances.
Identification
Employees will identify and respect leaders who have the same values, interests and goals as them. By demonstrating their shared interests and beliefs successful leaders gain the trust of their employees and by acting to satisfy and promote shared objectives, effective leaders get better results.
Utilizing networking
Successful leaders develop and supervise networks within the organisations to encourage participation and contribution from different sections within the organisation. Networking facilitates closer interactions between leaders and employees and increase trust and confidence between employees.
Taking advantage of adversity
Leaders who welcome adversity and view complex situations as constructive challenges are more successful. Similarly these group of leaders are more open to new ideas, innovations and systems in work place.
The art of delegation
Effective leaders delegate authority not responsibility. Proactivity as mentioned earlier in this article means leaders take responsibility in ensuring the employee is capable of carrying out the job. Successful leader understands that different individuals may take different actions to obtain results and that these course of actions may not necessarily be similar to what the leader would do. It is this understanding, flexibility and patience that makes some leaders more successful than others.
Modesty
Great leaders believe that they are more qualified for leadership not because they are more capable than others but because they are more willing. They are willing to accept responsibility and take up challenges and problems to achieve the common goal and objective of the organisations. Where ego of some leaders create fear, resentment and mistrust, modesty of others increases employees contribution and productivity. As Joseph Addison says rightly " A just and reasonable modesty does not only recommend eloquence, but sets off every great talent which a man can be possessed of".