Qualities of a Leader

Qualities of a Leader

This list is still a work in progress. Things I picked up from reading books, articles, and personal experiences.

1. Lead by example. Don’t ask someone to do something you are not willing to do.
2. Challenge people. Give them something meaning to do and you will be amazed at what they can do.
3. Get to know people at a personal level. Let them know you care about them.
4. Don’t micromanage.  Let them know what needs to be done and then get out of the way. Let them do their job.
5. Listen to people. Don’t be a dictator. Listen to other people’s idea and opinion.
6. Be a mentor. Help them grow. Don’t try to intimidate them.
7. Be humble. Don’t act arrogant.
8. Give a lot of praises. It didn’t cost you anything and its worth more than money.
9. Give positive feedbacks. It gives off positive energy.
10. Be honest. Don’t withhold information.
11. Place trust in people. Build confidence. Support them all the way.
12. Show respect. Don’t humiliate them or embarrass them.
13. Set attainable goals and deadlines.
14. Do more listening and less interruption.
15. Delegate responsibilities. You don’t always have to be in control.
16. Create a fun environment. Professionalism and fun can coexist.
17. Value people’s opinion and ideas.
18. Encourage passion. People are more productive if they are passion about it.
19. Reward and promote them. Provide recognition and let them know you appreciate them.
20. Let people know how you really appreciate their work.
21. Involved them in decisions. Let them know their opinion matters.
22. Understand everyone is different. No size fits all solution.
23. Inspire and build confidence.
24. Understand that respect is earned, not given.
25. Show courage. It inspire others to follow.
26. Have people skills. Leaders can bring people together, compromise, and work together.
27. Be generous. Put people first. Serve others.
28. Challenge what is wrong, even if it is your superior.
29. Have the ability to relate to other people. Understand how people feel and think.
30. Make people feel special, so sincerely compliment others.
31. Show people hope. People want a better tomorrow.
32. Help people navigate. People desire direction.
33. Encourage people. People can get low emotionally.
34. Help people win. People want to succeed.
35. Empower people. Give powers to others. Bring in good people and build them up so they will perform at the highest level.
36. Support great ideas.
37. Celebrate people’s victories.
38. Give people credits. Acknowledge their contribution.
39. Self-discipline. “The first person you lead is you”. Has to become a lifestyle.
40. Servanthood. Put others first.
41. Have vision.
42. Have respect and admiration of people.
43. Bring out the best in people.
44. Placing credit where it honestly belongs.
45. People follow leaders because they want to, not because they have to.