Leadership Attributes in Good Times and Bad

Leadership Attributes in Good Times and Bad

During this time of recession we have seen our share of articles claiming what leadership skills work best during a down economy. In my opinion I believe leaders need to have certain skills sets no matter what the economic condition is.

I have listed six of the leadership attributes that will benefit any organization during good times and bad.

1. The ability to generate and maintain a vision that will keep everyone focused during rough times as well as good times. During bad time it will help create possibilities rather than a return to past practices that seemed safe. In good times a shared vision will maintain focus on the prize. There is a saying “the enemy of the best is always the good” There are many good things we do throughout our day but are the best thing we could be doing.

2. The ability to inspire individuals to rise above the crisis. This is the opportunity to become better by using every opportunity to learn and grow stronger.

3. It has been said that character is far more important than technical expertise. A leader with integrity gives him or her ability to be honest with themselves and the team they lead in order to move ahead.

4. A leader must create an environment that allows people to take initiative that will improve their work. They must feel safe to fail if you expect them to make improvements. If they feel you expect only perfection they will never attempt any process improvement.

5. A leader must provide the direction and support allowing the organization to provide value to the customer and prosperity for the company.

6. Leaders must be able to duplicate themselves through mentoring this requires a leader to be open and willing to share knowledge. A leader must also create an environment that allows individuals opportunities to develop their skills.