Page 311 - Business Principles and Management

Unit 4

FIGURE 12-1 Effective leaders possess most of these characteristics.

Basic Leadership Traits

INTELLIGENCE
A certain amount of intelligence is needed to direct others. Leaders use their intelligence to
study, learn, and improve their management skills. They also help the people they work with
to learn and develop new skills. Leaders must use their intelligence effectively.

JUDGMENT
Leaders must make many decisions. They consider all facts carefully; apply knowledge,
experience, and new information; and use good judgment.

OBJECTIVITY
Leaders must be able to look at all sides of a problem and not make biased judgments or
statements. They gather information and do not rush into actions before considering the
possible results. They value individual differences, not stereotypes or first impressions.

INITIATIVE
Leaders have ambition and persistence in reaching goals. They are self-starters who plan
what they want to do and then do it. They have drive and are highly motivated. They encour-
age others to take actions and make decisions when appropriate.

DEPENDABILITY
Those who lead are consistent in their actions, and others can rely on them. They do not make
promises that cannot be fulfilled. When they make a commitment, they follow through, and
expect others to do the same. The people they work with can count on leaders to help them.

COOPERATION
Leaders understand the importance of other people and enjoy being with them. Thus, they
work well with others. They understand that people working together can accomplish more
than the same people working alone. They work to develop cooperative relations.

HONESTY
Leaders are honest and have high standards of personal integrity. They are ethical in deci-
sions and their treatment of others.

COURAGE
Leaders possess the courage to make unpopular decisions and try new approaches in
solving problems. They are willing to take risks to support others.

CONFIDENCE
Leaders have a great deal of self-confidence. They attempt to make the best decisions possible
and trust their own judgment. They respect others and expect quality work.

STABILITY
Leaders are not highly emotional. You can depend on their reactions. They can help others
to solve problems and reduce conflicts.

UNDERSTANDING
Leaders recognize that the feelings and ideas of others are important. They try to understand
the people they work with. They encourage others to share their ideas, experiences, and
opinions and show that each person is a valuable member of the organization.

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