FPRA - Florida Public Relations Association Blog

In the last session of the morning, Larry Face, President of Next Level Achievement, discussed “Ten Traits of Really Great Leaders” that help us take our leadership skills to the next level. Face began the session by asking the audience to think about someone we think of as a good leader and what traits make them a good leader. The audience listed about 35 traits including intelligence, drive, patience, resilience, ability to make decisions, charisma, fun and enthusiasm. Leadership is about communications. Determining what is important to others as well as yourselves—developing consensus, clarity and execution of strategy.

EQ is more important than IQ in determining a great leader. The speaker said, “the convergence of heart, head and guts (the EQ) is the sweet spot of leadership.” Society operates at it’s best when they communicate with one language, but organizations don’t think of it like that enough.

“Leadership is a glorious adventure that enables us to magnify our impact on the world,” quote by Tom Peters.

“Leadership is about influencing people to follow while management focuses on maintaining systems and processes,” quote by John Maxwell.

Historically, leaders were appointed and being told what to do (very military style). When the “why” generation (the baby boomers) began, they asked why (to everything). The first and most important step is respect. Listening to others to really know who they are not just the message they are communicating at that moment.

The 10 Most Important Leadership Traits:

Personal Clarity— Great leaders know who they really are, what they really want in their life and why they really want it. Each person should write a one-page personal summary including your personal values, needs, personal mission statement and strengths.

Courage— Great leaders accept personal responsibility, display courage and are proactive. Ask yourself two questions—what would you do if you knew you only had 6 years left to live? Then (ignoring the first question) ask yourself what you would do if you knew you only had 2 days left to live? Asking these questions will really tell you what is important to you.

Integrity—Great leaders “walk their talk.” They live with integrity and inspire trust. Be honest and do what you know you should.

Resilience—Great leaders are curious and always searching for the best way. They understand how to accept and initiate change.

Vision— Great leaders see and stay focused on the big picture. The lack of a clear vision from leadership results in (too) many visions.

Serving— Great leaders are focused on serving their organization, family, etc.

Appreciative— Great leaders know what their most important resource is.

Relationships— Great leaders strengthen and use their EQ.

Develop Other Leaders— Great leaders know the law of explosive growth, which is to add growth, lead followers and leaders will multiply.

Commitment— Great leaders are passionate, determined, purposeful and committed.

The speaker ended the session by saying that we should always remember the absolute importance of the choices we make throughout life and effect we have on the world.