Character is essential to leadership because it is the foundation that builds trust with followers. A leader’s good character is what earns the respect and loyalty of those they lead. Without trust, a leader cannot be effective in influencing and guiding their team.
In today’s society, where individualism is highly valued, it’s important to remember the importance of character in leadership. Good character is what sets leaders apart and allows them to inspire confidence, guide others towards a common goal, and helps to earn trust. Unfortunately, it’s an essential quality that is often overlooked in leadership discussions.
Here are some ways character becomes essential in your leadership by doing the following:
Setting an example: A leader’s character sets the standard for how employees should conduct themselves within the organization. A leader with strong character will model honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior, which will inspire others to do the same.
Building trust: Trust is a vital component of effective leadership, and a leader’s character is a key factor in building trust with employees. A leader with strong character will be perceived as trustworthy and dependable, which will foster a positive and productive work environment.
Making difficult decisions: A leader’s character will inform how they approach difficult decisions, and a leader with strong character will make decisions that are in the best interests of the organization and its employees, rather than just their own self-interest.Leading by example: A leader’s character will guide their actions and decisions, even in difficult situations. A leader with strong character will lead by example, even under pressure and be a role model to their team.
Improving organizational culture: A leader’s character can have a significant impact on the culture of an organization. A leader with strong character will foster a culture of integrity, accountability, and respect, which can lead to improved employee engagement and overall organizational success.
Establishing a reputable image: A leader with strong character commands respect and admiration, which in turn attracts opportunities to their business. A solid reputation built on strong character is a powerful tool for any leader to advance and grow their business in the long-term.
In conclusion, character is the foundation that enables a leader to make ethical and responsible decisions that benefit not only themselves, but also their organization, employees and community. Without character, a leader’s leadership style and effectiveness can become questionable and potentially lead to negative outcomes.
Lead From Within: Without character, a leader may struggle to gain the support of their employees and ultimately, fail to effectively lead their organization.
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.