When discussing the qualities of good leadership, I think any description requires an asterisk by it. There are definitely some defined positive and negative attributes to define great leadership but there are also some qualities that might work in some circumstances but not in others. The nature of the specific leadership position itself is important. For example, some characteristics that might work for a General might be off-putting in a minister yet both of these are clearly leadership positions. Some positions require some one who is great with details as well as planning and motivation while other positions rely more heavily on personality.
To understand anything, it is best to look at the best or worst examples for comparison. Politics aside, let’s examine the U.S. presidency. Franklin D. Roosevelt won 4 terms so would by that measure be considered the most successful President in American history. He inherited the Great Depression and led us through World War II. His economic measures weren’t doing much to overcome the Great Depression. It was the war that actually stopped the financial problems the U.S. was facing however, it was his fireside chats and ability to inspire confidence that encouraged Americans to follow and support him up to a fourth term which he didn’t live long enough to complete. Ronald Reagan was able to do the same thing primarily on his oratorical skills after the public’s disappointment with Jimmy Carter. President Carter was arguably the smarter individual since he was a physicist however he was never able to reassure the American public to any large degree during both the gas and Iran hostage crises. George W. Bush had similar problems because he wasn’t very articulate. Many of his proposals were unpopular but it wasn’t his programs but his personality that caused his unpopularity ultimately. A great leader can win over his followers and curry support for ideas that might be originally unpopular.
In business, one must be able to anticipate as well as react, be firm yet diplomatic, and have a desire for improvement. Complacency acts like a tape worm eating a business from within. The best business leaders were innovators in the industry and either came up with great ideas or inspired creativity in their employees.
There have been many great coaches in all sports and some are known for their strong and rough personalities. The one common characteristic of all great coaches is a desire for success and the respect of their players. The key to any great leader is having and maintaining respect. People are looking to their leaders to lead and inspire them. If one doesn’t have his followers’ respect, then he can’t get their support.
