Are You an Inspiring Leader?

We should never doubt that an inspired and motivated workforce is essential for any business that hopes to stay ahead of the competition – in these highly competitive times.

In a recent survey of more than one and a half thousand managers, people were asked what they would most like to see in their leaders. The most popular answer, mentioned by 55% of people? “Inspiration’.

Yet when asked if they would describe their current leader as ‘inspiring’ only 11% said ‘yes’ and the two attributes that people actually mentioned most often when describing their leaders were ‘knowledgeable’ and ‘ambitious’.

The stereotype of the inspirational leader as someone extrovert and charismatic is the exception rather than the rule. Looking at best practice across business, though some inspirational leaders certainly do fit this mold, a large number do not. Many are quiet, almost introverted. The following are some of the most commonly observed characteristics of inspiring leaders:

Strong Strategic Focus

They are very good at ensuring that the business only does those things where it has the resources to do a good job and where it can add real value.

Lateral Thinkers

They are particularly adept at drawing on experiences, outside their own sectors, and taking a much broader view than the norm. They look at things very laterally and encourage their people to do the same.

Vision and Communication

An inspirational leader has a very strong, customer-focused vision of where the business should be going. Importantly, they are also able to communicate their vision so that their people feel they own it and know where they fit into it. The best leaders are great communicators who prefer plain speaking to jargon.

 Principled

They are deeply committed, courageous, demanding of themselves and their people and confident – albeit often in a quiet and under-stated way. What singles them out is an exceptionally strong set of values built on honesty, openness and true respect for their people.

What makes an inspiring leader?

Reflective

What distinguishes them is genuine humility and not being afraid to show vulnerability on occasions. This comes from regular periods of reflection and an unquenchable thirst for learning.

Risk Takers

They have a marked tendency to ‘bend the rules’, take calculated risks and, on occasions, be guided by their gut-feelings. They also tolerate this in other people, recognizing that a certain amount of flexibility is essential to adapt to circumstances and make real strides forward.

Accessible

They make time to get out and speak to people. This informal and personal contact is a very powerful motivator. Equally, when they are at their own desk, they aren’t cosseted behind a wall of PAs.

Value Attitude

They value skills and training very highly, but they also focus heavily on attitude, believing that, without the right attitude and motivation, nothing will be achieved.

In summary, the best leaders promote a culture where their people value themselves, each other, the company and the customers. Everyone understands how their work makes a difference. This helps to build a commitment to higher standards where everybody is always looking to do things better because they are inspired!