Everybody defines leadership differently but irrespective of how you define a leader, they can prove to be a difference maker between success and failure. A good leader has a futuristic vision and knows how to turn their ideas into real-world success stories.
This year’s #FLNationalAwards & Summit theme is #DareToLead so we asked our regional finalists to define essential leadership qualities that no leader can survive without. So, our finalists have spoken! Here is an in-depth look at the top 5 leadership qualities that make good leaders.
1.
Leanne Conway, Information Security (Governance, Risk & Compliance) Analyst, Yorkshire Water
“I think there are still a lot of misconceptions between Management and Leadership in our day and age. It’s so important that your team members see you as a person who can be approached without fear of failure or embarrassment. If you cannot be honest with your leader, or if the leader is not honest with their team then a breakdown of that relationship is imminent. I truly believe that honesty is the best policy on all levels and this trait will gain you so much respect along the way.”
2.
Sophie Milliken, MD, Smart Resourcing Solutions
“Vision, commitment and persistence. You have to know what your overall plans are but not be afraid to adapt these when required. Committing to making things happen and supporting your team well will pay off, as will persistence.”
3.
Andrea Rodney, Director, Hone All
“A leader should remember that every team member is an individual and as valuable as the next, irrelevant of position or skills or performance. If something is lacking, it’s your job to help them improve so focus on what they are good at, enhance it and expand it into the other responsibilities they face and the skills they need. Understanding individuality is the biggest key to success for this as everyone needs different behaviour sets to achieve their maximum potential.”
4.
Lizzy Hodcroft, Director/Founder, Myndr
“I believe that leaders both inside and outside of business seem to lack a certain amount of accountability and humility. We all make mistakes but the most important part of them is taking the time to reflect and accept the part that you played in making them. This is hard because it takes an amount of vulnerability but I firmly believe that this is what makes us human and connects us on a deeper level. Being willing to share some humility has unfortunately become missing from today’s leaders.”
5.
Leah Ward, Account Manager, Softcat plc
“The best leaders are the ones who listen and lead by example. Don’t be afraid of delegating but never ask a team member to do a job you wouldn’t do yourself!”
This is a very exciting time of the year here at FL as we celebrate the UK’s most phenomenal female leaders and male agents of change! Find out who made the FL National Awards & Summit shortlist this year and join us for the biggest, brightest and most diverse celebration your region has ever seen. BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE
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