 
By Marjorie Brody
Lee Iaccocca. Meg Whitman. Jack Welch. Oprah Winfrey. Four effective leaders in their respective industries and careers. All possess similar traits that make them effective leaders. Contrary to popular beliefs, leaders aren't born—leadership skills can be learned.
If you're looking to develop your leadership skills, here are nine traits shared by many great leaders.
1. They are strong communicators.
Leaders have impeccable skills for being understood and understanding others. Great leaders create an environment where the lines of communication are always open, and those around them feel comfortable sharing information. When they have information to share, great leaders always consider the methods available and choose the one best suited for their message (voice mail, email or in person). They develop their written and oral skills, ensuring that voice-mail messages are concise and to the point, and that letters and emails are clear and easily understood. Most importantly, great leaders consider their audience. They never speak down to anyone, or use language that is over others’ heads. They know it’s more important to connect with their team than to try to sound important or intelligent. Leaders also recognize that not everyone processes information the same way, and so they are skilled at flexing their communication style to maximize their success with others.
2. They promote a vision.
True leaders are visionaries. They can persuade and convince others that their cause is just and worth working for. A leader communicates his or her vision first by defining reality—a message that boils down to “where we've been” and “where we are.” Then comes the challenge of vividly describing a new reality: “where we must go.”
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It may be as old as time, but this axiom is definitely true for leaders. Treat your followers the way they want to be treated.
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3. They make others feel important.
Self-centered people do not draw a crowd. No one wants to work with or for someone who is only interested in self-acclaim. Make sure that your colleagues and others you interact with receive the praise they deserve. Notice their accomplishments and emphasize their strengths and contributions—not just your own activities.
4. They follow the “platinum rule.”
It may be as old as time, but this axiom is definitely true for leaders. Treat your followers the way they want to be treated. Abusive leaders attract few supporters.
5. They admit mistakes.
True leaders have no problem recognizing they were to blame or wrong. If others believe you are hiding mistakes, they are likely to do the same. This also goes for actually saying, “I'm sorry.” Great leaders know the impact an apology can have toward mending faces and moving forward.
6. They criticize others only in private.
It can only embarrass, demean and alienate workers to criticize in a public forum something they have done or said. Public praise is good, but if someone needs to receive negative feedback, the effective leader makes sure this is done one-on-one—with no one else around. And, the criticism needs to be constructive, not vindictive or self-serving.
7. They stay close to the action and are involved.
Leaders don't hide. They are active members of their society and business world. They belong to trade groups and associations. They have a vocal presence in their respective industries. Leaders never rest on their laurels. They are always trying to meet new people, learn new things and gain new insights.
8. They celebrate success.
There's no denying that competition exists; business is more competitive now than ever. A leader turns this into a game of sorts—setting team goals and rewarding those who meet or beat them. Leaders examine shortcomings and celebrate accomplishments. Big visions and ambitious goals mean there is always more to be done and higher ground to be reached. However, focusing only on what is yet to be accomplished can ironically lessen the likelihood of success. An effective leader knows that progress must be celebrated if high morale and commitment is to be maintained.
9. They make trust a priority.
Downsizing and reorganizing have done much to make American businesses the most competitive in the world. Unfortunately, these practices have also weakened employee loyalty and, in many cases, generated a great deal of cynicism. Only a highly trusted leader is going to generate support for a new vision. This means being candid, truthful and consistent. It means being authentic and reachable when others are more concerned about maintaining an image.
Copyright 2005 Marjorie Brody and Brody Communications Ltd. Used with permission. All rights reserved.
Marjorie Brody, CSP, CMC, PCC, is a speaker, coach to Fortune 1,000 executives and the author of more than 18 books, including Career MAGIC: A Woman's Guide to Reward & Recognition, and Speaking Is an Audience-Centered Sport. For more information, call 800-726-7936, or visit www.MarjorieBrody.com.
November 2005 Advising the Advisor
A Briefcase in Your Pocket
No Bad Leads
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