Leadership is an art that encompasses various qualities and attributes. A truly effective leader is someone who possesses a unique blend of skills and characteristics, inspiring others to achieve greatness. But what exactly are those unique characteristics? I asked my team to share what they perceive to be the qualities of a great leader. Below is a collaborative list of what we, at Downtown Durham, Inc., think are the best attributes of a true leader.
One essential quality of great leaders is creativity in thought. True leaders relish challenges as opportunities to think outside the box to push for unique solutions. Yet, a leader doesn’t do this in a vacuum, but works to foster creativity within the team, creating a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
A sense of humor and a good attitude are also valuable traits. Leaders who can lighten the mood and inject humor into the workplace create a positive environment that boosts morale and fosters camaraderie. This positivity radiates enthusiasm, fostering an uplifting environment where everyone feels motivated and empowered. This helps relieve stress, promotes collaboration, and encourages open communication.
Humility and self-awareness are also critical. Leaders understand their strengths and weaknesses and embrace and seek out honest and constructive feedback. They acknowledge their team’s contributions and give credit where it is due. By remaining humble, they create an inclusive and supportive work environment. Honesty and transparency are non-negotiable qualities of effective leadership. Leaders who communicate openly and honestly with their team earn trust and respect. Those that admit their mistakes, take responsibility, and learn from failures, fostering a culture of accountability and growth among their team.
Adversity and failure are inevitable in any journey, and true leaders acknowledge this, and when confronted with these challenges tackle them immediately and decisively. This display of resilience and composure inspires their team to face and learn from setbacks, adapting and growing stronger in the face of adversity. Authenticity and adaptability go hand in hand. Leaders who stay true to their values and principles while remaining flexible in their approach gain the trust and loyalty of their team and others. They are authentic in their actions, inspiring others to be genuine and allowing space for personal growth and learning from mistakes.
Leaders must be passionate about their team and prioritize their team’s growth and development. They provide guidance and support while allowing their team members the autonomy to make mistakes and learn from them. By creating a safe space for growth, they inspire their team to reach their full potential.
Empathy is a fundamental quality of great leaders. Those leaders that understand this and connect with their team members’ emotions and perspectives, foster a culture of compassion and understanding. By putting themselves in others’ shoes, these leaders create a supportive and inclusive work environment.
Exceptional leaders are natural role models. They exemplify and model the values and behaviors they expect from others. They prioritize ethical practices and ensure fairness in their decision-making process. And others look to them for encouragement and guidance, seeking their wisdom and expertise. They encompass a diverse range of qualities and characteristics yet no one quality outweighs another. Rather, great leadership is an art that, when mastered, elevates individuals and teams to their highest potential.