There are four characteristics that define a credible leader:
1. Consistency (leadership that knows no colour or is confined to any relationship)
2. Engaging (appreciating that leadership is not about you)
3. Decisive (take a stand. Good or bad)
4. Caring/Empathetic (appreciating that there are certain things that are beyond our control)
The subject of business leadership has been studied and written about a lot, yet it still eludes us in practice.
In contrast to the characteristics of a credible leader are styles of leadership that do not deliver results and are not sustainable. These include an Autocratic leadership style (i.e.) such leaders tend not to achieve much. Impressionist leadership style (i.e.) those that want to impress everyone, tend to not be respected.
Equally, inconsistent leaders are seen as poisonous and only perpetuate corporate politics. You can lead or deliver your mandate by deliberately dealing with issues in a decisive and non-personal way. Take a stand on issues- Don’t be a spineless leader who has no stand. Good or bad, take a stand. Business leadership is not about consensus or democracy. Yes it should be inclusive/considerate of others views but not negotiated.
Remember, the buck stops with you. If you have not delivered your mandate, your stakeholders will not hold a conference to ask why and then apportion blame- they will deal with you as they should.
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