5 Inspiring Leadership Qualities

Many great leaders have inspired me during the course of my extensive international marketing and communications career.  From graduate school to the business world and global humanitarian work, I’ve witnessed a multitude of exceptional leaders take organizations to new heights while improving others’ lives.  But I’m just as motivated by the everyday actions we can all take to become great leaders while serving others.  Here are five 5 leadership qualities which continuously motivate me:

1. Great leaders are true listeners.  As Dr. Stephen R. Covey said, “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.”  Great leaders truly listen to understand all aspects of a situation before replying or acting.  They listen because they might gain valuable insight that benefits others – and their entire organization.   
2. Great leaders recognize people for their achievements.  They know the worth of a simple, “Nice work,” or, “Great job.”  It’s not about constant praise, but seeing and complimenting someone who works especially hard to fulfill – or surpass – his or her responsibilities.  Being noticed feels good, is motivating and even inspires one’s colleagues. 
3. Great leaders welcome input that challenges their thinking.  They enjoy working with people who bring different expertise to the table and aren’t afraid to share it.  Great leaders welcome input from colleagues who see things differently because it ensures they’ve considered every angle of a challenge before making a decision.  Their colleagues also feel acknowledged and valued.
4. Great leaders give back by mentoring young talent.  In the era of mobile devices and automated everything, young people often appreciate experienced professionals willing to invest their attention and wisdom in them.  A great leader also knows the reciprocal benefit of knowledge transfer.  It’s rewarding to pay it forward.
5. Great leaders are courageous.  They bravely explore and implement new strategies and technologies to propel their organizations forward.  Great leaders are calculated risk-takers who don’t generally take “because that’s the way we’ve always done it” for an answer.  They know that sometimes a leap of faith is the best (if not only) route to success.

I could continue with this list, but for now perhaps consider implementing some of these leadership practices at work or while giving back to your community.  You might be surprised by the wonderful feeling they give you – and others.  If you find them useful, or if you would like to share some of your own leadership thoughts or experiences, I would enjoy hearing from you.

Julie Calmès is Pinnacle’s Manager of Marketing and Communications. Julie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in French and Social Sciences Teaching from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Master of Business Administration in International Marketing from the ESCP Europe Business School. Julie is an international marketing and communications professional with over 28 years' experience in strategic planning, project management and creative marketing/communications design for global, multi-lingual audiences. A dual U.S.-European citizen, she has lived and worked throughout Europe, Asia and the United States.