Personality
Traits of Effective Leaders - Part Two
Last month, we explored the first five of ten personality traits leaders exhibit.We saw that assertiveness, enthusiasm, warmth, self-awareness and self-objectivity are all necessary to evolve into a person that others want to follow.
We also discovered that while a few leaders are born, most are self-made.
Yes, it's possible to develop yourself much like a new product is researched and developed so that you begin to exhibit the traits of an effective leader.
Since it takes commitment, focus and dedication, let's take a look at the final five traits.
Self-Confidence - This trait may be the most important of all.
We all have heard the phrase, "fake it till you make it," but self-confidence is not this - it's much more.
Self-confidence comes from within - it's a deeply held, fundamental conviction that radiates outward and attracts others to you and your cause.
The key is not to fake it, but to grow to the point that your own confidence grows from the very depths of your being that says you have something of value to offer in the service of others.
That in itself will radiate outward with "the ring of truth" to everyone else around you.
Extroversion - Extroverts are magnets for success.
By its very nature, extroversion causes a desire in leaders to reach out and connect with people in a way that draws others in.
Leaders who exhibit this quality tend to be gregarious and outgoing, as well as good networkers.
Extroverts are much more likely to want to assume a leadership role, especially in group activities.
And extroverts have a natural desire to be in front of the room helping to lead, rather than being simply a participant.
Sense Of Humor - Humor is the glue that often keeps it all together when times get tough.
Humor can reliably serve such functions as relieving tension and boredom, as well as diffuse hostility.
Because humor can assist a leader in dissolving tension and conflict, it's an easy way to reassert power and focus in group situations.
Simply put, humor makes people like you. And if they like you, they will automatically want to follow you.
Trustworthiness - Followers must be able to trust their leader.
A leader must always display deep honesty and integrity in order to build and maintain credibility.
What's important to remember is that we must always earn the trust of others.
Trust takes time to build, but can be lost in a moment.
Emotional Stability - This final trait is one that can make or break both a leader and leader to be.
We all have emotions. What we do with them is the difference.
When the going gets tough, how do the tough get going? It's at this point that a true leader will either take his group to the next level or often lose them altogether.
It's the difference between reacting and responding.
A leader maintains control over his or her emotions so that their response is appropriate to the occasion.
It's true that leadership is not for everyone. Most people are comfortable following others.
But in order for others to look up to you, the ten personality traits of leaders are important to practice and demonstrate.
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