Editor’s note: Brooke Cade is a freelance writer working with customer experience platform InMoment.
While determining the attributes of a great leader may be difficult at times, it’s always easy to identify what makes up a bad one. I’ve identified five qualities that some of the greatest leaders throughout history have exhibited. These attributes have allowed them to lead their teams to victory, whether on the battlefield, in the office or on the sidelines.
If you wish to be a successful leader, here are five qualities you need to learn and develop.
1. Listen to your employees
Listening to your employees is a concept lost on many managers and leaders in the office, but should be at the top of your list. Let your employees know they can voice their concerns and speak their mind (within reason) without consequences. Your employees are on the front lines of your company. They deal with customers each day and see first-hand what works and what doesn’t. When it comes to customer service and other company policies, you’d be surprised at what you’ll learn from them.
2. Be accountable
No one likes working for a boss who is passing blame onto their employees which is why taking accountability for your team is so important. After all, you hired them and trained them, and so you’re the one who needs to answer for them, especially in times of mismanagement. A true leader stands up tall and accepts consequences, while a weak leader will place the blame on everyone else around them.
3. Be positive
There is a lot to be said for a positive attitude – everyone likes being around someone who exudes positivity. When you’re able to maintain a passion for your work, your passion and confidence will become infectious. Your enthusiasm will spread throughout the company, creating an enjoyable company culture. When you cultivate an environment that inspires, your employees will be happy to work hard for you and the company will flourish.
4. Empower employees
Aside from letting them know they have a voice, it’s important to empower your employees by showing confidence in them. No one likes to be micromanaged – show your confidence by giving employees freedom and trusting in their abilities. If you’ve hired the right people and implemented proper training, it’s time to stand back and watch them succeed.
5. Lead by example
Quite possibly the most important item on this list is leading by example. Would you rather work for a boss who is down there on the front line fighting along with you, or one who sits in their office, oblivious to what things are like on the bottom rung of the company, barking out orders? Take the time to stay in tune with every job in your company, and never allow yourself to believe that you are too good for even the most menial work.
Maintain perspective
Never lose sight of what it’s like to be low man on the totem pole – establish a company culture of respect and positivity, and you’ll find that your employees are willing to fight for you and follow you anywhere.