LEADERSHIP SERIES, part 3
Part 2 of our leadership series discussed some of the styles of leadership. In part 3, we are going to discuss some of the qualities of a good leader.
The qualities of a good leader
What are the qualities of good leaders? How should they behave in certain specific circumstances? How should they deal with colleagues on the board of directors, staff and members of groups?
1.Empathy
Above all else, leaders must be able to place themselves on the same level as others. Leaders must be able to put themselves in the shoes of those they are dealing with. They must try to feel what the other person feels. They must be intuitive and able to make those around them feel important.
2.Communication
Good leaders must be good communicators. Not necessarily great public speakers. The important thing is to understand what people say and to ensure they understand in return. Good leaders are clear and precise when communicating.
3.Overcoming resistance and opposition
Everyone puts up resistance. Everyone has their own view of an issue or a problem. Sometimes, two people freeze into a symmetrical relationship. This type of relationship can go nowhere since both individuals are defensive and wish to impose their point of view on the other. We can represent this sterile relationship as two people with the same weight on a weight scale. Neither can make the situation change since they are both stuck with the same attitude.
What can a good leader do to solve this problem?
A leader seeks to go around these blockages and understand the other person. A simple way to avoid symmetrical relationships (where each individual sticks to their position) is to play a subordinate role.
This means adopting an attitude of respect and listening actively to the other. Take a look at the difference between maintaining the leadership role and taking a subordinate role.
| Subordinate role You play a subordinate role when:-You have succeeded in identifying the points of resistance held by the other.-You understand that the other person may also be right on some points and it would be advantageous for you to profit from that.-You are respectful, understanding and willing to listen to the other person.-The leader knows how to be respectful and listen to others.-This approach makes it possible to break an impasse between two individuals.-This approach does not mean abandoning our ideas, but rather creating a favourable climate for discussing between individuals. | Leadership role You play the leadership role when:-You feel that the other person is respectful and wishes to know your point of view.-You have enough confidence to reveal your approach or point of view.-You feel the other person may play a subordinate role in the discussion.-In a discussion, the leadership role may be passed from individual to individual.From this position, you can defend your point of view, and confidently express your opinion to the other. |
References:
Comment déveloper votre enterprise, Banque fédérale de développment, Canada, 1986
Gestion efficace pour votre entreprise. Banque fédérale de développment, Canada, 1983
Animation et travail en équipe, Pierre Choquette, Economie rurale, Com 16277, September 1990
Construire ensemble, Notre leadership dans une économie en changement, Agropur.
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