To lead people effectively, you must first look at what traits or attributes make up a good leader. Sometimes wealth is not found in new ideas but in gold that has been previously mined. In his 1937 legendary book “Think and Grow Rich” Napoleon Hill gives us the following attributes:
The Major Attributes of Leadership
1. UNWAVERING COURAGE- the ability to exude both courage and self-confidence.
2. SELF CONTROL- the ability to know when to listen, speak and act.
3. A KEEN SENSE OF JUSTICE- fairness is critical to maintain the respect of his followers.
4. DEFINITENESS OF DECISION- wavering shows that he is not sure of himself.
5. DEFINITENESS OF PLANS- you must plan the work and then work the plan.
6. THE HABIT OF DOING MORE THAN PAID FOR- willingness of the leader to do more than he requires of his followers.
7. A PLEASING PERSONALITY- a careless person cannot become a successful leader.
8. SYMPATHY AND UNDERSTANDING- understanding both the employees and their problems.
9. MASTERY OF DETAIL- a strong attention to detail.
10. WILLINGESS TO ASSUME FULL RESPONSIBILITY- not shifting blame but realizing that he as the leader is the one who failed.
11. COOPERATION- leadership calls for power and power calls for cooperation.
Now the question you must ask yourself is, do I as a leader possess these attributes and if not, what can I start doing today to become a more effective leader?