What makes a good leader?
I have seen many good and bad leaders in my time so I feel I can definitely comment on this. If you have a boss / manager at work or a teacher at school / college, it doesn’t automatically make them a good leader. I learned that along the way. The qualities that I feel a good leader should have are :
– Leading by example, if you do a good job and help others, your followers will strive to do the same. Don’t ask someone to do something that you yourself would not be prepared to do. Delegate appropriately. If you’re a good leader, people will want to help you.
– Be kind but be firm. You don’t need to rule with an iron fist, however, you can’t be a walkover either. You need to stand up for what is right and look after your followers / employees / students.
– Be approachable. This is very important to build a good rapport and communication. You want everyone to feel at ease and know they can come to you with any issue / problem. It creates a good atmosphere and builds strong relationships.
– Be open and honest. Be authentic. You don’t have to put yourself on a pedestal, we are all human beings. No one is better than anyone else.
That’s my list for now. I really strive to have these qualities when I’m nursing / teaching. I always say to my students, “treat people how you would like to be treated and if someone is not kind to you, think how you will never be that person”. I will have a lot of respect for a good leader. I don’t expect them to be perfect, nobody is but if they have these qualities, we’re onto a winner.
Enjoy your Friday everyone.
Wayne
Personal integrity is fundamental for a good leader
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Yes that’s a great point!
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A non Wishy/Washy person.Someone with inner strength but also someone who has compassion for the situation and the people he leads. One who knows along with the glory also comes the blame when “it” hits the fan.
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I love the term wishy/washy! Haven’t heard that in years but yes I agree. Thank you ☺️
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This is a great list. Also, I would include being a good listener. I have had principals in my career as a teacher who would never really listen to the concerns brought up at faculty meetings, simply giving lip service. The ones that truly listened helped to make the workplace a much better environment.
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Yes that’s a great skill to have. Many people are great talkers but not so good at the listening.
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It’s a really good list, Wayne. I think the same things so I have nothing further to add. I liked the “be kind but fair” part of your list the most. Being a leader doesn’t have to mean you’re always shouting or bossy. I like that reminder. Big hug xx
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Thanks Janet! Have a great weekend ☺️
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I agree so much Wayne, and along with that treat others as you’d like to be treated I’d add appreciation goes a long way to an employee’s satisfaction / happiness at work. x annie
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Oh absolutely. Too often we hear negative feedback but we need positive feedback too and a simply “thank you” goes a long way.
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Well said!
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Thank you!!!
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Good list.
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Thanks Jean!
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