She Empowers: 8 Characteristics of Leaders

by STRONG | Apr 12, 2020 | Learn + Grow

Leadership is a word that is often tossed around and loosely used this day and time. So, what makes a good leader? Is it their ability to lead or their ability to follow? People spend millions of dollars each year in an effort to empower and equip themselves with the tools they believe are necessary to achieve their goals.  However, there are usually 8 characteristics you should seek in their quest for leadership. These characteristics are not rocket science, but they are simple enough that many people forget just how impactful they can be.  Grab a pen and paper during this quarantine lesson and see how many of these you can implement in your journey to enhance your leadership skills.

1. Connection : Either you have it or you don’t. Leaders speak in a language that interests their audience. They are clear about what they are offering and why it adds value to a particular area.

2. Direction : Great leaders will not dote over you following them. they want to see how what they offer gives presence to your growth. No to be confused with, taking credit for your accomplishment, but acknowledging your process in your evolution.

3. Perception : When things are implied, but not clear, true leaders speak to the elephant to find a resolution versus applying a bandage in hope that the wound will not seep through.

4. Redirection : Understanding when it is time to redirect is a leader’s trait. Leaders do not rest in the failure they use it to push them further into the pivotal direction of their next opportunity.

5. Critical Thinking : Having data and information from research is important.  however, the ability to encounter situations that have not been charted before and come out on the other side is vastly more important. Leaders will not be bound to information they are given, they have to execute based on long vision.

6. Empowerment : Leaders are not opposed to building others.  Creating opportunities for others to do what they do best can generate new ideas, build morale and possibly the bottom line.  A leader who understands a person’s strengths can help curve weakness and inspires self-development.

7. Clarity : A leader is clear on their vision. There is no question as to the vision and what task needs to be accomplished once a direction has been given.

8. Co-Communication : Effective communication is the cornerstone of leadership.  being able to convey what you mean and what needs to be done is paramount in leadership.  While giving direction is often spoke about, receptive communication is not always addressed. The ability to listen and interpret what someone needs is just as important as telling someone what you need.  Leaders co-communicate, meaning they do both efficiently.

After reading through these 8 characteristics what areas do you think you are strongest and weakest?  What can you do this week to start improving in the areas that need work and enhance those where you currently deem yourself to be effective.  Remember, leadership isn’t just about running a business, leadership is about running your life.  The better you become at growing in who you are the more it spills over to other aspects of your life.