Leadership

“Leadership isn’t about a word in your title, a certain salary band, or any one specific characteristic like charisma or extroversion. There are a lot of great definitions of leadership out there, especially by those who embody it.” Source

One of the world’s most inspiring leaders, Nelson Mandela, once said that “If you want the cooperation of humans around you, you must make them feel they are important – and you do that by being genuine and humble.” Even 8 years after the passing of this former president, there is still much we can learn from his life and time in office. He was a leader with a powerful presence and showed the world what forgiveness looks like; he was a visionary that could see the big picture and was focused on goals and a mission beyond himself; through all that he lived he stayed full of hope, showed determination and stayed humble.

Qualities of great leaders – inspired by Nelson Mandela:

  • Are visionaries
    • Great leaders have a big picture vision
    • They plan and share the roadmap with employees
  • Are great communicators (top-down and bottom-up)
    • Great leaders communicate often and clearly with employees
    • They are able to share a consistent message that resonate and inspires employees
    • They are open to upward feedback and empower their employees by listening
      “…treat work as a collaboration” – Kate Pritchard
  • Are opinionated, but humble
    • Great leaders have strong convictions, but encourage employees to speak up
    • They treat everyone with respect regardless of their position, role or title

“Great leaders are not head-down. They see around corners, shaping their future, not just reacting to it.” – Roseline Torres

  • Have empathy
    • Great leaders have the ability to understand the needs of others, and be aware of their feelings and thoughts
  • Influence through authenticity
    • Great leaders can influence others through authentic and transparent communication
    • They are able to inspire employees to live by the core company values that align with the ultimate business goals

“If you want the cooperation of humans around you, you must make them feel they are important – and you do that by being genuine and humble.” – Nelson Mandela

Source
Article Sources:
  • https://blog.smarp.com/leadership-what-are-the-qualities-and-characteristics-of-a-great-leader
  • https://hbr.org/2004/01/understanding-leadership
  • https://www.sacap.edu.za/blog/management-leadership/nelson-mandela-leadership-style/
  • https://futureofworking.com/5-nelson-mandela-leadership-style-traits-skills-and-qualities/