A good leader instigates internal motivation in his/her subordinates. But how can one know if they are possessing qualities of leadership or if they are using it for common benefit? Let us have a look:
- Command with respect: It is the foremost quality that one must possess. Giving directions and making subordinates work is necessary but equally important is respect which every human being deserves, no matter which role they play.
- Giving sufficient freedom: Responsibility without power becomes overburdening and unacceptable. So, the employees must feel that are allowed to do the work their way within the timeline. They should not feel like slaves.
- Empathy: Every living being must have this trait, no matter whether he/she is a leader or follower. Getting involved with personal problems of subordinates by helping them in whatever way you can, makes them feel attached to the organization as a whole. So, discipline combined with flexibility is the key.
- Being competitive, not comparative: The head must recognize that everyone has different capabilities and skills. So, while on one hand, good competition by rewarding good work improves productivity, on the other hand, comparing performance of one person with another kills productivity. So, be very choosing while speaking words of appreciation.
- Equal treatment: Without any reference to caste, creed or gender of the deputy, the leader should always treat them equally. Otherwise, it will create a sense of resentment amongst employees in long-term.
The traits given above are micro factors that should be taken care of on daily basis. On top of that, the individual personality of a person such as his drinking and smoking habits makes him a good or bad leader. A leader should be the idol.
