What Makes a Great Leader? 11 Traits to Master

Many of us have come across great managers in our careers and marvelled at what makes them so good at leading others. Management is a tough job, so how is it that some people make it all seem so effortless?

The truth is, no one is born a great leader. The skills and attributes of fine leadership are learned over the course of a career, and it’s never too late to start!

Traits of the Best Leaders

1. You Treat Others How They Want to Be Treated

See what I did there? Common wisdom says we should treat others how we want to be treated, but what does that have to do with making the other person happy? What if their goals, aspirations, and values are nothing like ours?

Think about it: does the painfully shy person want a big office party where everyone sings "Happy Birthday" and chants "speech, speech"? Do they appreciate public praise? What about the office extrovert? They’ll probably enjoy both of those things!

Being a good manager requires adapting your management style to each individual to get the best out of them. This is also crucial when working across different cultures and generations in the workplace, who often view work and success in varying ways.

2. You Treat Everyone Equally and with Respect

It’s vital to treat everyone with respect, regardless of their position in the company. A team will lose trust in a manager who has favourites, and if you speak down to the building receptionist or the person who delivers the sandwiches, you’re showing that you might one day treat your team the same way. This won’t help build trust.

3. You Show Genuine Interest in People

Small talk is fine, but real rapport is built through genuine interest. Don’t get stuck in shallow conversations. Ask meaningful questions that show you’re genuinely curious about your team. What makes them think and act the way they do? When they see you doing this consistently, a bond will form.

Avoid bragging about your competence or past achievements. Your team likely already knows your qualifications from LinkedIn, and bringing it up too much can make you seem insecure.

4. You’re Authentic and Honest

You let a bit of your real self show, whether it’s talking about your kids, pets, or your favourite TV show. By being authentic, you signal that your team can be their real selves too. You’re also honest, avoiding platitudes, empty praise, or excuses.

5. You’re OK Admitting When You Don’t Know Something

You’re not afraid to admit when you’ve made a mistake or don’t know something. This shows your team that it’s OK to make mistakes or ask for help, fostering a creative and supportive environment. This “vulnerability” is where true management magic happens.

6. You Celebrate Others’ Successes

You don’t always put yourself in the spotlight. Instead, you give genuine praise to others and take pleasure in seeing your team succeed. You work hard to bring out the best in those you manage.

7. You Listen and Show Appreciation for Ideas

You always listen to ideas and thank people for their contributions, even if you don’t use them. This makes employees feel valued and heard.

8. You Use Positive Body Language

Your body language and facial expressions send a powerful message. Whether it’s an encouraging smile or ensuring you aren’t towering over someone when giving feedback, good leaders understand the importance of non-verbal communication.

9. You Stay Positive

You don’t dwell on past failures or harp on negatives. Instead, you look to the future with optimism. You’re open to new ideas and appreciate that others may see things differently and possibly better. You avoid complaining about the company, knowing it can demotivate your team.

10. You’re Resilient and Brave in the Face of Conflict

You don’t shy away from tough conversations or conflict. You deliver difficult truths when necessary and understand the power of developmental feedback when it’s given well.

11. You Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously

You’re able to laugh at yourself now and then without putting yourself down. This helps create a relaxed and approachable atmosphere.

How Many of These Traits Have You Mastered?

Leadership is a learning process, not a talent fixed at birth. So how many of these traits have you mastered, and how many more could you learn by the end of the year? Why not start today?

Many thanks,

Alex & The Excel Team

P.S. If you would like to discuss any of your other learning & development challenges, book in your discovery call.

About Excel Communications

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