Although certain people seem to have the ability to inspire others, the ingredients of true leadership don’t need to be a mystery. Many people have studied the characteristics of leaders and discovered many commonalities.
Encourage your students to start forming the characteristics of a leader if they are interested in a leadership or management role in an organization or institution, or simply if they want to have more influence among their circle of friends.
Andrew J. DuBrin identified many of these traits in his book Leadership, Research Findings and Practice, and Skills. Here’s a quick summary:
Self confidence. DuBrin states that a leader who is confident in himself and not overbearing or brash instills self-confidence among team members (p. 37). Your calm demeanor and self-confidence can help others feel more confident that they can overcome obstacles or reach difficult goals.
Humility. Humility is when you are willing to share credit with others and are willing to admit that you are not perfect. Others will see this and appreciate it.
Core self-evaluations. Research has shown that effective leadership is based on four core self-perceptions. They are self-esteem, locus control (taking responsibility for your life), self-efficacy (akin to self confidence), and emotional stability.
Trustworthiness. Trustworthiness is when your actions, words, and motives are consistent with what you do. This means being open about your mistakes, refusing gossip and shifting blame, and doing things ethically even if it’s easier to do so.
Authenticity. Be authentic and true to yourself. People will notice when you try to be someone else than you are.
Extroversion. Leaders are outgoing and show interest in others. They also enjoy taking part in group or team activities. You may feel that you are not naturally extraverted. You can improve your skills by making an effort to show genuine curiosity and friendliness towards others.
Assertiveness. Be open about your concerns, needs, and opinions. Be kind, but don’t forget to be polite!
Enthusiasm and optimism are key to generating warmth. Being positive, approachable, and sharing positive thoughts and feelings via verbal communication and nonverbal communication can help you build relationships with others.
A sense of humor. People can feel more relaxed and calm if they are able to laugh. (pp. 37-45)
DuBrin lists many personality traits that are common to leaders, in addition to the general personality traits.
Passion. Leaders demonstrate a strong commitment to their work and enthusiasm.
Emotional intelligence. A strong leader shows empathy towards others and has a good understanding and appreciation of emotions. They also recognize that their mood can affect the performance of the entire organization. Daniel Goleman conducted the primary research in this area.
Flexibility and adaptability. Leaders can bring about change… but they must also be able to adapt to new situations and settings.
Internal locus control. Strong leaders are able to take responsibility for their actions and believe they can influence the outcome and conditions.
Courage. Courage. (pp. 45-51)
You can start building habits that increase your effectiveness by becoming aware of what it takes for you to be a leader.
Reference: DuBrin, A.J. 2013. Leadership: Research Findings and Practice, 7th Edition. Mason, OH: South-Western, Cengage Learning.
