Ian Aubourg of East Greenwich has always enjoyed watching the growth and success of those around him. In the following article, Ian Aubourg explains how effective leaders tend to exhibit eight integral qualities to empower, inspire, and motivate teams.
Nurturers. Communicators. Empowerers. Confiders. Guiders. Directors. Inspirers. All these words link back to one — leaders. The best leaders are lauded for their ability to strengthen teams, incite passion, and achieve goals. But many wonder how exactly they manage to do it so effectively.
Ian Aubourg of East Greenwich says that while every leader is different, the most well-respected ones share specific qualities and traits that inspire success in those who choose to follow them. Incredible leaders exist in all corners of society, from workplaces to educational establishments to public action groups, and each one has either developed or naturally obtained such characteristics.
Ian Aubourg on 8 Qualities of Influential Leaders:
They Lead by Example
Credibility and respect shouldn’t be underestimated. Both are interconnected and play major roles in a leader’s success. And they come from leading by example.
Ian Aubourg of East Greenwich explains that demonstrating desirable behavior prompts people to follow suit. Leaders who expect a lot from their teams should also set ultra-high standards for themselves.
Moreover, aligning words with actions constructs trust within teams, meaning they’re more willing to follow the example they’re shown.
And Share Their Vision
Ian Aubourg says that every leader has a vision. But it’s only those who articulate them clearly and passionately who reign effectively. After all, people can’t get excited or passionate about things they don’t know.
Teams must understand how their efforts contribute to big-picture goals for leaders to achieve persistent, tenacious, enthusiastic work long-term.
They Also Communicate Clearly
Ian Aubourg of East Greenwich reports that leadership and transparent communication go hand-in-hand. The ability to concisely and clearly communicate is a vital leadership skill — and it means more than just attentively listening.
While that’s certainly a necessary quality, effective communication goes beyond that to include:
- asking intelligent questions
- encouraging new ideas and input
- clarifying misunderstandings
- sharing valuable information
- setting goals
The most influential leaders also ensure their communications energize and inspire their teams.
They Make Tough Decisions
Difficult decisions are a part of life, but they become even more depressing in leadership roles. The ability to make fast, tricky decisions with potentially limited information is essential to success.
Ian Aubourg states that the best leaders are well-versed in these scenarios, understanding they must make their decision with conviction and hold themselves accountable for the consequences. Confidence is key in these circumstances, allowing professionals to leverage opportunities and earn team-wide respect.
They Display Integrity
Much like Rome, no leader built integrity in a day. However, those who wish to succeed in their role will strive to establish it.
In a leadership context, demonstrating integrity means drawing on personal values and using them as guiding principles when communicating, making decisions, and behaving. This includes:
- Communicating openly, directly, and honestly
- Having evident notions about right and wrong
- Keeping promises
Integrity-filled leaders are notably rewarded with confidence, respect, and loyalty from their team members.
They Empower Their Team
Ian Aubourg advises that people must have ownership over their work and believe they’re doing something meaningful to give it their all. And it’s up to leaders to provide both integral components through empowerment.
Leaders who’ve mastered this incredible art communicate clear goals, set and follow deadlines, and provide autonomy and authority to figure out how the work is done. High expectations often encourage staff to take initiative, display innovation, and be creative.
And Recognize Achievement
Consistently recognizing achievement is one of the most important qualities of inspiring leaders. Employees simply won’t contribute their best efforts unless they know their work will be appreciated and valued according to Ian Aubourg.
Effective leaders find ways to celebrate successes to boost morale and enhance overall motivation to keep pushing forward.
They Inspire and Motivate Through Passion
Ian Aubourg says that leaders who show passion and enthusiasm about their projects are almost guaranteed to be met with motivation and inspiration by their teams. In addition, continuous reinforcement of people’s efforts will undoubtedly inspire them to reach their potential.
Developing Leadership Traits to Achieve Success
Despite popular perception, leadership traits can be learned and enhanced over time. Some people are born with natural charisma, but others can obtain them by practicing effective listening, critical thinking, discipline, delegation techniques, and conflict handling.
It may not happen overnight. However, those who put their minds to it have the power to motivate, inspire, and empower teams through learned effective leadership skills.
