7 Major Attributes of Leadership

by Ernest Ledwaba

Leadership calls for courage. Leadership requires strength. Leadership requires humility. In order to be a great leader, the following set of mandatory attributes are a prerequisite. Adoption of these attributes, followed by taking the necessary ACTION, will result in a successful life full of fulfillment.

1. Definite plans

True leaders set goals. They set SMART goals. They stick to Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound goals. These leaders plan to achieve their goals. True leadership is measured by implementing the plans to achieve the set goals. True leaders plan their work and then work their plan.

2. Courage to try new things

True leaders have an open mind. They are willing to take risks. Their willingness to face challenges head-on is evident. Their attitude is to be strong, to never stop trying until success is realized. Their motivation to keep on trying never stops. Their feet are set where most people think is tough.

3. Going the extra mile

One of their greatest attribute is to deliver more than expected, to exceed the customer expectations. They usually do this without expecting extra pay. They do a little bit more - arrive a little bit earlier in the morning, leave a little bit later at the end of the shift. They stretch themselves a little bit more than the average person.

4. Service-orientation

True leaders are service-oriented. Theirs is to serve rather than being served. They do this willingly. They become the servant of their followers, at all times. They provide excellent service.

5. Decision making

True leaders are effective decision-makers. They are not afraid to make tough decisions. Their level of confidence in decision making is high. Another quality they have is the ability to perform good problem analysis and put proper problem resolution mechanisms into place. As a result, they come up with high quality decisions.

6. A pleasing personality

Leaders must create a friendly atmosphere for people to feel comfortable in their presence. A warm personality will inspire confidence. It will build and maintain a team filled with enthusiasm. Team members will be inspired into positive action. They will be free to express their opinions. Creativity will be nourished in such an environment, and more opportunities will emerge.

7. Principled approach

A successful leader must have clear principles and stick to these principles even when it is difficult. The expression, "Unless we stand for something, we will fall for anything", does hold water. In order to successfully achieve their goals, true leaders must deeply believe in the set principles and persist until they reach success.