Most of the situations and theories I’ve discussed up until this point have been from a negative point of view, or perhaps in a way of needing improvement. I guess it’s always easier to see the negative instead of the positive for whatever reason that actually may be. So I thought I’d take a different approach with this opportunity and talk a little bit about a leader I admire, quite possibly more than I’ve ever admired any leader I’ve had.
He possesses all of the major leadership traits – intelligence, self-confidence, determination, integrity and sociability- that Northouse (2013) indicates are central to a great leader. He’s highly intelligent regarding our business but does not behave in a way which would make others feel uncomfortable with his knowledge. He’s always willing to help others work through a situation either by offering a solution or by helping them arrive at the solution themselves. He possesses the characteristics of a servant leader as well. His ability to predict what is going to happen as well as provide that vision to the rest of the company is extraordinary.
He is the leader I strive to be someday. He knows everyone in our company of over 300 employees- their names, their families, etc. And as he walks through the departments he acknowledges each one. But he also understands his role and the goals of the company and what the strategy is to reach them. He’s methodical in reaching conclusions to different challenges, he genuinely listens to others’ opinions, and he remains calm regardless of what is happening around him. I’ve said many times that the building could literally be on fire and you’d never know it from his face. That’s the kind of leader I want to be.
Northouse, P.G. (2013). Leadership: Theory and Practice. Los Angeles:
Sage Publications
Emily Catherine Paul says
It sounds like the leader you’re referring to has admirable leadership traits, such as a special know-how of connecting with the people around him. Being lucky enough to be lead by a person like him would be a valuable, insightful experience- especially when learning more about leadership. You’ll benefit from just by being around him and observing his qualities.
Unfortunately, I’ve not yet experienced a leader quite like the man you describe. The leaders who surround me currently and who have in the past have been more self-centered and motivated by their personal, and usually monetary goals. I think empathy is a trait many lack, especially in larger companies. Some who I’ve known and worked with could’ve been great leaders and probably would’ve reached their goals faster if they just took the time to work on their ability to connect with others.
Thanks for sharing!
Lojie Martin says
I think your title is great. I have had several bosses who “lead” in the same fashion as the boss in your first picture. In my experience, it is mostly from those who are appointed into their position. I have also experienced leaders who emerged simply because they were admirable. Typically it is a sociable personality coupled with many of the major traits you listed: intelligence, self-confidence, determination, integrity. It is the kind of person who gets their hands dirty with his/her team. Frankly, I find it difficult to follow a leader who is hypocritical -telling their followers to do things they are not willing to do.
I also find it interesting that the leader you describe falls under several different leadership theories. I wonder if the best leaders are the ones who are well rounded, able to lead in diverse fashions.
References
Northouse, P.G. (2013). Leadership: Theory and Practice. Los Angeles: Sage Publications