20 Leadership Traits
A leader can be profiled based on the 20 leadership traits. Understanding and profiling an individual based on these 20 traits we can better predict future behaviour and performance.
Integrity
When measuring integrity, it is important to understand the ‘nature of the beast’. Integrity is not whether or not we are honest or moral; rather it is whether our daily actions demonstrate our declared values.
01 Truthfulness
Truthfulness is an essential trait for great leaders. Your capacity to be open, honest and forthright is a measure of your leadership. Telling the truth with zero tolerance for dishonesty in others, is your hallmark.
02 Responsibility
True leadership means 100% responsibility for your actions. Total ownership even when the outcome is undesirable. High scores in this attribute gives you the most freedom as a leader.
03 Accountability
In this trait we are measuring your capacity as a leader to hold others accountable for the results they promised. Your ability to notice and not walk past unmet deadlines or commitments will have the team operate at a high level.
04 Loyalty
As a leader making decisions for the greater good where you can put aside your personal needs or goals is Loyalty. Loyalty means the leader serves the organisation, not the individuals in it.
05 Self-Awareness
Great leaders can self-reflect. Their introspection allows them to be aware of their impact on others and the organisation.
06 Impression Management
Leaders must understand the importance of being seen in a favourable light – not by empty popularity, but by doing the right thing with others.
07 Vision
A leader has to have a vision. Great ones are able to see possibilities and identify opportunities but don’t stop there. Great leaders turn ideas into action.
Being Visionary and able to articulate what is possible, allows you to lead with ease and grace. Leaders who do not have ‘possibility thinking’ struggle to enrol their people in the future of the company and thus risk their people losing hope.
Self Management
Leader-follower relationships are important in determining the effectiveness of a leader. Leaders need to motivate others and provide coaching and guidance appropriate to an individual’s situation.
08 Self-Belief
Leaders need the sort of self-belief that gives them confidence in their own skills and abilities, and expectation of success in most situations.
09 Assertiveness
Assertiveness done right has great impact on leadership. Leaders are to express their opinions confidently, irrespective of relationship. They are to stand up for self even in difficult situations. Good leaders know the power of a No, when it is most necessary.
10 Personal Happiness
Leadership means leading a life influence, and a successful one starts with contentment. When an individual is happy with his current life circumstance, he can look at the future without fear that hinders.
How do your traits stand up?
Take our mini profile survey which focuses on the key leadership trait accountability and see how you stack up!
Relationship Management
Leader-follower relationships are important in determining the effectiveness of a leader. Leaders need to motivate others and provide coaching and guidance appropriate to an individual’s situation.
11 Ability to Talk
Good leaders enjoy talking with people. They are articulate and have no problem expressing their opinion.
12 Ability to Listen
Employees esteem bosses who choose to give patient and thoughtful attention to what is being presented to them. There is nothing more attractive to a member than a leader who listens.
13 Appreciation
Appreciation is a potent source of motivation for people. A leader is able to inspire by acknowledging others’ contribution, and by constantly offering positive and critical feedback.
14 Empathy
Empathy is an enviable trait. One who chooses to see the world through others’ eyes is able to provide support and build a sense of trust. Leaders must understand differing perspectives and needs, and work at being socially sensitive, tactful and perceptive.
15 Networking
Networking is a requirement in today’s competitive environment. Those who wish to thrive, not just survive, in the arena for the fittest must be bold enough to start something – relationships, deals – and not wait for opportunities to come to them.
Task Management
The Task Management Profile relates to an individual’s attitude toward work and their level of self-discipline.
16 Result Orientation
Leaders must be winners at heart. They should have clear goals, and are always geared towards achieving them.
17 Organisation
It is imperative for any leader to stay organised. There must always be a schedule and structured approach to projects and plans. Effective leaders always know where things are.
18 Task Focus
Task-focused leaders get things done. Leaders are able to immerse themselves in work and maintain their focus.
19 Attention to Detail
Sweat the small stuff. Leaders must be conscious to details, and be thorough, precise and accurate in their work.
20 Reliability
Reliable leaders keep the promises they make. They go beyond simply being individuals on top. They are punctual and do whatever it takes to meet deadlines and expectations.