Followleaders’lead
CONFIDENT? Ruthless? Assertive? If these are the traits you’d most commonly associate with being successful in business, you might want to think again.
German business school GISMA spoke with some of the UK’s top business leaders to find out how they made it to the top – and the results may surprise you.
Dr Steve Priddy, Academic Dean at GISMA Business School, said: “Good and effective leadership creates a better work environment for all.
“Setting an example as a great leader helps others to see what skills they need to also be successful.
“True leadership is about taking people to places they would not (or could not) go on their own. Achieving that level of loyalty and dedication is next to impossible without a genuine allegiance inspired by true leadership skills.”
If you’re keen to climb the career ladder, read on for the experts’ views on the qualities needed to be a hit in business.
BE PATIENT
Dr Steve Priddy said: “Being a successful leader doesn’t just happen overnight, it takes a lot of time and patience to develop leadership skills.
“It’s important to be experienced in your field of work, so that you’re able to advise and deal with any difficult situations.”
BE RESPECTFUL
Piers Chead, founder and CEO of The Formations Company, said: “Respect is never a given – it has to be earned and then renewed on a regular basis, time and time again. As a leader, it’s not always about being perfect.
“Sometimes, it’s about admitting failure, taking responsibility, tackling difficult situations and, ultimately, being open-minded and vulnerable, as well as having conviction.”
BE INSPIRING
Leadership and business coach Helen Packham said: “Storytelling is a hugely powerful and transferable skill that can be used to influence, persuade, engage and inspire.
“Using stories in presentations, public speeches, meetings and training can really make an impact – people naturally love stories.”
HAVE A CLEAR VISION
Life and success coach David Jessop said: “Always stay true to the vision and purpose of your organisation or team.
“You need to have an understanding of yourself – it’s not only about how to tackle difficult situations, but also about celebrating success and being flexible and adaptable when adjusting to things that don’t go to plan.”
BE OBSERVANT
Piers Chead said: “It’s undoubtedly important to understand your space and the people within it. A good leader will always take time to observe the dynamic before diving in.
“The better you understand your environment, the more effective you’ll be at tackling those tricky situations when they arise.” For information about GISMA,
visit www.gisma.com/faculty