Leadership is nothing but the quality that sets a person apart from other ordinary employees. It is associated with someone who has assertiveness in speech and action, a love for employees, the ability to handle pressure under different circumstances, and a willingness to fight for employees' rights. A leader is ineffective without followers; it is the followers who elevate a person to leadership and, if necessary, can remove them from that position. Leaders play a crucial role during periods of change implementation, from the announcement of change to its full implementation. This transitional phase is the most unstable for an organization, marked by confusion, fear, loss of direction, decreased productivity, and a lack of clarity about goals and mandates. It can be an emotional period, with employees mourning what is lost and struggling to envision the future.
In addition to foresight and affability, essential qualities for a leader include the ability to recognize employees' talents, the skill to build effective teams, and an open mind.
Leadership qualities may vary slightly based on the position; they may differ for a manager compared to a union leader, but the fundamental qualities of leadership remain constant.
1. Good communication skills
Communication is key to being a great leader. Even if a leader possesses the other nine essential qualities but lacks effective communication, they will never be a great leader. It is crucial for a leader to communicate with others in the organization about how IT can drive the company forward. In essence, good communication is vital for fostering strong business relationships. Without the ability to establish good working relationships, a leader cannot effectively communicate how IT can create long-term value for the company. Modern leaders must, therefore, possess strong communication skills and employ innovative methods for effective communication.
2. Honesty
The most valuable asset of a leader is honesty. A leader must be honest with both employees and the management team. Integrity is another integral aspect of a leader's character. Once a leader compromises their integrity, it is irreparably damaged. Integrity is often considered the most admirable trait, and leaders must prioritize maintaining it above all else.
3. Visionary outlook
Leadership qualities vary based on the position. For a CIO, they must focus on stabilizing the current business while constantly seeking opportunities for future expansion. A CIO must have the ability to look beyond the present, understand the direction in which the business is heading, and leverage that vision to propel the company forward. This skill of envisioning the future is truly rare.
4. Building a strong team
A competent CIO, despite possessing solid technical skills, ensures that the team they assemble is capable enough to complement any skills they may lack. Selecting the best individuals for the team is a skill in itself. A CIO, like any other human being, does not have all the answers. However, by fostering an environment of mutual trust and respect within the team, they can collectively find the best solutions.
5. Actions speak louder than words
Managers must set aside their concerns to listen to those around them (and appear to be listening). Consequently, they gain insight into what is happening and understand both the spoken and unspoken messages. They have a knack for discerning the needs of others, even when those needs are not explicitly stated. However, merely identifying what is happening and the needs of those around them is insufficient. A responsive manager takes action based on that knowledge, striving to fulfill the needs of employees, superiors, etc. Responsive managers wield influence to solve problems for those around them, often proactively.
6. Ability to motivate others
A good leader consistently motivates their team members to excel and maintains a positive work environment. They prioritize the safety of workers and ensure they are not exploited by superiors.
7. Consistency
Leadership effectiveness hinges on consistency. Each leader has a unique approach that defines them. While it is essential to refine rough edges, avoid confusing your staff by displaying inconsistency. Your expectations, though subject to adjustments based on evolving business needs, should remain as consistent as possible. The business realm is already perplexing; avoid introducing unwelcome surprises. Keep things straightforward and consistent.
8. Standing firm against critics
As a leader's success grows, so does the number and volume of critics. Accept that there will always be individuals critiquing every decision you make. These critics often excel at identifying problems rather than solving them. Develop the skill of deflecting such criticism to prevent it from eroding your confidence or enthusiasm.
It requires focus and confidence not to be swayed by criticism. Strong leaders master the art of listening to critics while ultimately making decisions that benefit the department, rather than merely appeasing critics. The following quote encapsulates this concept: "Some of the most talented people are terrible leaders because they have a crippling need to be loved by everyone," as aptly stated by James Schorr.
From India, Hyderabad
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15In addition to foresight and affability, essential qualities for a leader include the ability to recognize employees' talents, the skill to build effective teams, and an open mind.
Leadership qualities may vary slightly based on the position; they may differ for a manager compared to a union leader, but the fundamental qualities of leadership remain constant.
1. Good communication skills
Communication is key to being a great leader. Even if a leader possesses the other nine essential qualities but lacks effective communication, they will never be a great leader. It is crucial for a leader to communicate with others in the organization about how IT can drive the company forward. In essence, good communication is vital for fostering strong business relationships. Without the ability to establish good working relationships, a leader cannot effectively communicate how IT can create long-term value for the company. Modern leaders must, therefore, possess strong communication skills and employ innovative methods for effective communication.
2. Honesty
The most valuable asset of a leader is honesty. A leader must be honest with both employees and the management team. Integrity is another integral aspect of a leader's character. Once a leader compromises their integrity, it is irreparably damaged. Integrity is often considered the most admirable trait, and leaders must prioritize maintaining it above all else.
3. Visionary outlook
Leadership qualities vary based on the position. For a CIO, they must focus on stabilizing the current business while constantly seeking opportunities for future expansion. A CIO must have the ability to look beyond the present, understand the direction in which the business is heading, and leverage that vision to propel the company forward. This skill of envisioning the future is truly rare.
4. Building a strong team
A competent CIO, despite possessing solid technical skills, ensures that the team they assemble is capable enough to complement any skills they may lack. Selecting the best individuals for the team is a skill in itself. A CIO, like any other human being, does not have all the answers. However, by fostering an environment of mutual trust and respect within the team, they can collectively find the best solutions.
5. Actions speak louder than words
Managers must set aside their concerns to listen to those around them (and appear to be listening). Consequently, they gain insight into what is happening and understand both the spoken and unspoken messages. They have a knack for discerning the needs of others, even when those needs are not explicitly stated. However, merely identifying what is happening and the needs of those around them is insufficient. A responsive manager takes action based on that knowledge, striving to fulfill the needs of employees, superiors, etc. Responsive managers wield influence to solve problems for those around them, often proactively.
6. Ability to motivate others
A good leader consistently motivates their team members to excel and maintains a positive work environment. They prioritize the safety of workers and ensure they are not exploited by superiors.
7. Consistency
Leadership effectiveness hinges on consistency. Each leader has a unique approach that defines them. While it is essential to refine rough edges, avoid confusing your staff by displaying inconsistency. Your expectations, though subject to adjustments based on evolving business needs, should remain as consistent as possible. The business realm is already perplexing; avoid introducing unwelcome surprises. Keep things straightforward and consistent.
8. Standing firm against critics
As a leader's success grows, so does the number and volume of critics. Accept that there will always be individuals critiquing every decision you make. These critics often excel at identifying problems rather than solving them. Develop the skill of deflecting such criticism to prevent it from eroding your confidence or enthusiasm.
It requires focus and confidence not to be swayed by criticism. Strong leaders master the art of listening to critics while ultimately making decisions that benefit the department, rather than merely appeasing critics. The following quote encapsulates this concept: "Some of the most talented people are terrible leaders because they have a crippling need to be loved by everyone," as aptly stated by James Schorr.
From India, Hyderabad
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Effective Leadership Styles.ppt
Key Imperatives of Leadership Development.pdf