Leader is a person who does the following: Creates an inspiring vision of the future. Motivates and inspires people to engage with that vision. One approach to leadership emphasizes that a person should possess certain qualities or traits to become a successful leader.
Some of these qualities are explained below:
(i) Physical features: Physical features like height, weight, health, appearance determine the physical personality of an individual. It is believed that good physical features attract people.
(ii) Knowledge: A good leader should have required knowledge and competence. Only such person can instruct subordinates correctly and influence them.
(iii) Integrity: A leader should posse’s high level of integrity and honesty. He should be a role model to others regarding the ethics and values.
(iv) Communication skills: A leader should be a good communicator. He should have the capacity to clearly explain his ideas and make the people to understand his ideas.
(v) Motivation skills: A leader should be an effective motivator. He should understand the needs of people and motivate them through satisfying their needs.
(vi) Self Confidence: A leader should have high level of self confidence. He should not lose his confidence even in most difficult times.
(vii) Social skills: A leader should be sociable and friendly with his colleagues and followers.
In fact, it is not possible for any individual to have all the qualities. But an understanding about these qualities helps the managers to acquire them through training and conscious efforts.
