Introduction
Leadership is an essential quality in any organization or community. A great leader can make all the difference in the success of a team, business, or society. But what makes a great leader? This article will explore how to describe a great leader by looking at interviews with successful leaders, examining leadership theory, surveying a group of people, exploring the biographies of iconic leaders, and analyzing the impact of great leaders.
Interviews with Successful Leaders
One way to gain insight into what makes a great leader is to interview successful leaders. By asking questions about their leadership styles, qualities, and accomplishments, it is possible to identify the common traits and characteristics of great leaders. For example, a study conducted by researchers from the University of Central Florida found that successful leaders demonstrate qualities such as integrity, trustworthiness, intelligence, creativity, and vision (Hilburn-Sims et al., 2018).
By interviewing successful leaders, it is also possible to gain insights into their individual characteristics. For example, Bill Gates is known for his focus, dedication, and strategic thinking; Steve Jobs was renowned for his passion, creativity, and risk-taking; and Warren Buffett is famous for his wisdom, discipline, and long-term planning (Li & Li, 2017). Examining the life and career of successful leaders provides valuable information on the qualities which make them stand out.
Examining Leadership Theory
Another way to gain insight into what makes a great leader is to examine leadership theory. There are numerous theories of leadership, each of which offers a different perspective on the qualities which make a great leader. For example, transformational leadership theory suggests that great leaders inspire and motivate their followers through their vision and enthusiasm, while servant leadership theory emphasizes the importance of humility, empathy, and service (Conger, 1998). Understanding key qualities associated with different theories of leadership provides valuable insight into what makes a great leader.
Surveying a Group of People
In addition to examining leadership theory, it is also useful to survey a group of people to gain insight into what makes a great leader. By asking questions about qualities such as integrity, communication, decisiveness, and problem-solving skills, it is possible to gauge opinions on what makes a great leader. A study by researchers from the University of Maryland found that people value qualities such as honesty, empathy, and decisiveness when assessing leadership potential (Kirkman, 2006). Examining different perspectives on what constitutes a great leader provides valuable information on the qualities which are valued most.
Analyzing Biographies or Autobiographies of Iconic Leaders
Exploring the biographies or autobiographies of iconic leaders is another way to gain insight into what makes a great leader. By examining the life and accomplishments of iconic leaders, it is possible to explore the qualities which made them successful. For example, Mahatma Gandhi was renowned for his courage, determination, and non-violent approach to social change, while Martin Luther King Jr. was celebrated for his courage, vision, and commitment to justice (King & Carson, 2001). Analyzing the life and legacy of iconic leaders provides valuable information on the qualities which enabled them to achieve lasting change.
Exploring the Impact of Great Leaders
Finally, it is important to explore the impact of great leaders. Great leaders have the power to influence organizations, communities, and society as a whole. For example, Nelson Mandela is remembered for his courage, resilience, and commitment to justice, which enabled him to bring about lasting change in South Africa. Similarly, Mother Teresa is remembered for her compassion, selflessness, and dedication to helping the poor, which had a profound impact on countless lives (Garton, 2015). Examining the influence of great leaders provides valuable insight into the qualities which enable them to achieve lasting change.
Conclusion
A great leader can have a profound impact on an organization, community, or society. To understand what makes a great leader, it is important to look at interviews with successful leaders, examine leadership theory, survey a group of people, analyze biographies or autobiographies of iconic leaders, and explore the impact of great leaders. By doing so, it is possible to gain valuable insight into the qualities which make a great leader.
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