Question

Describe what you think it takes to be an effective leader. Support your answers with examples

Answer 1

In my opinion, an effective leader has the following characteristics:

• Clear communication and vision – An effective leader can communicate the goals and objectives clearly and is able to lay down his/her vision simplistically. The team finds it easy to follow clear communication and goals that are free from ambiguity.·For example - If the team is not able to understand leader's vision they cannot take necessary actions to achieve the vision.
• Lead from the front – An effective leader needs to lead from the front and be in the firing line. He/She sets an example for everyone to follow and inspire others with his personal traits. The team must see their leader as a role model. For example – A pessimistic leader cannot hope his team to develop positive instincts in bad situations. The quality of leader rubs on the team.
• Ability to guide change within the team – An effective leader must be able to take everyone forward with him. Despite frictions between the team or friction with his/her ideas leader must be able to inspire, convince and guide the team to achieve a common goal. For example – A leader who focuses just on high performers would lose the confidence of average or low performers in the team.
• Back the team and nurture team – An effective leader must back his team to all ends, support them in their bad times and never give up on the abilities they have. He/She must chalk out plans to nurture his/her teams and make certain to get best out of the team collectively.·
• Face tough situations and be decisive – An effective leader does not run away from tough situations, instead, he/she faces it calmly. He/she tries to grab the problem by the neck and resolve it. Further, an effective leader must have the ability to take decisions rationally and quickly. At times good leaders need to go by the gut feeling.
• Modest and ethical – An effective leader does not boast about his achievements. He/she is humble always. Also, he/she must be ethical and not use unethical means to achieve goals. An effective leader brings in good behaviors within the team that benefit the team. For example - A leader who comes to office on time would inspire others to be on time. On the other hand, a leader that himself is not punctual cannot expect discipline from the team.