Lessons in leadership

What makes a great leader?

Expectations create reality. The way you lead teaches your people the way they must follow. Work should be fun. All great leaders demonstrate entrepreneurship and have the ability to work in a style that mixes the visionary with the practical. They excite their people and never loose sight of the vision. The leaders of tomorrow will spend less time on the traditional management functions of planning, controlling, directing and evaluating and more time facilitating - change, learning and self management. An important characteristic of a great leader is the ability gain team commitment. The way to do this is to talk about commitment then develop a total work environment where there is harmony between people and procedures. Make work a happy place to be by promoting the social aspect. Many of you still expect your employees to work 7.00am until 7.00pm – reward them with social activities outside of work and include partners.

Getting the best from high achievers in your organisation is sometimes difficult because some will plateau. The key to getting the best from them is first to identify and acknowledge their skills and then encourage change. Make sure your high achievers are not left marking time. They need to be challenged constantly. Provide special assignments and additional training – this will show your commitment to them. Always concentrate on the future to guard against them dwelling on yesterdays victories. Remember that high achievers demand continued attention. These individuals seek recognition for their achievements – so give it to them.


Leaders of tomorrow know the value in sharpening the saw. They understand the importance of constantly learning and self-development for themselves and their people. Encourage development whether job related or not. Set aside a training budget and utilise it for training of your people. They will appreciate and strive to improve as a result.

Finally, leadership greatness means that you create something that does not end with you. Ensure that you have a succession plan in place and encourage your people to step up to the challenge.