What kinds of attributes, characteristics do you both desire to develop in yourself as a leader as well as what you’d like to see in those leaders you follow? There are probably a lot. Ron Edmondson shares some of what he’s looking for. Good read!

Guest Post by Ron Edmondson

There are some attractive traits for in successful senior leaders. If a leader has these, he or she will be more likely to have loyal followers. I’ve got a long way to go. At 60 years of age and having been a senior leader for over 30 years, I realize more of my weaknesses today than ever in my career. But I’ve also learned a few things I want to try to emulate as a senior leader.  These are some of the “best of the best” traits for those who attempt the daunting responsibility of leading others.

Desirable Traits For High Level Leaders:

Steady – They give a calming assurance in the midst of chaos.

Humble – They aren’t building themselves up at the expense of the team.

Courage – Wiling to make the hard, unpopular decisions.

Conviction – Have a deep gut for the things they are passionate about pursuing.

Adaptable. They are change resilience and willing to tweak the plan to attain the vision.

Strategic-thinking – They see how all the pieces and people fit together and build a plan accordingly.

Learner – They are never satisfied with current knowledge or wisdom. They are consistently seeking input from others.

Collaborative – They love a team approach and everyone’s voice is appreciated.

Optimistic – They are always willing to see the bright side of an issue – encouraging others around them, and even learning from failure.

Listener – They genuinely listen to hear because they truly care what others have to say.

Servant-hearted – You won’t have them asking you to do something for them that they aren’t willing to do for you. They do so because they truly care for others.

Genuine – The perception they present publicly is who they truly are privately.

Any you would add?

Which of these most attract you to a leader?