What does it take to be a good leader? Do you think you’re ready to move into a leadership position at your organization? A person may “climb the corporate” ladder but that does not mean he or she has leadership ability. Unfortunately, most people are promoted based on seniority instead of their qualifications. Seniority is not a good reason to promote someone to a leadership, management, or supervisory position.

Top 10 List

1. Inspire and motive people.
2. Confident and trustworthy.
3. Committed to succeed and meet all goals. Never give up!
4. Non-verbal and verbal communication skills. Say what you mean, mean what you say.
5. Receptive to constructive criticism.
6. Apologizes and admits mistakes.
7. Listens with an open mind.
8. Self-starter who takes calculated risks.
9. Empowers others to think for themselves.
10. Time management.

Bonus!

If you are not familiar with “Principle Centered Leadership” by Stephen R. Covey or the essay “The Servant as Leader” by Robert Greenleaf you may want to visit Barnes and Noble. Improve your leadership skills today!

Links to Leadership

1. The Art and Science of Leadership.
2. Center for Creative Leadership.
3. The Five P’s of Leadership.
4. Leadership 501.