Employees in any organization want different things from their leaders in the personal and professional capacity. At the personal level, employees want leaders who relate to them. These are leader who are not intimidating, and who are easy to approach. Professionally, employees want leaders that are fair, and who recognize individuals on the basis of their merit.
Hard working employees require recognition so that they remain focused in their work. Leaders who are determined to help individuals reach their full potential and use the right methods enjoy great support.
Charismatic and transformational leaders
Charismatic leaders make people follow them, by cultivating an admirable personality. They use charm and grace to inspire their followers. When working, they give every individual attention, and make them feel valuable in the organization. When they address their followers they tend to lift their hearts and spirits and leave them with an excitement which motivates them to achieve set goals. They are able to develop a strong bond with their followers.
Transformational leaders have some charismatic characteristic, but are inspired by change. They can transform an organization from failure to success because they have vision and great passion to succeed. They inject great effort and determination in everything they do. Like charismatic leaders, they tend to give people high level of attention.
The major focus of charismatic leaders is motivation of employees to achieve set goals and achieve full potential. Transformational leaders major focus is changing the organizations they head.
Leadership traits
Good leaders understand their followers and the organization they are heading. They have diverse leadership qualities that enable their organizations achieve their goals. Leaders should always be motivated. This will boost their followers to work harder. They will also be self-motivated and stand out as role models which reinforces their image. Many employees trying to match their standards increase their work output.
During problems, good leaders make quick and reliable decisions to save the organization. Employees, who trust their leaders, will focus their energy in developing the organization as they feel secure.
Integrity, self-confidence, and good knowledge of the business influences the decisions made by a leader. This is important when circumstances require the re-shuffling of employees. A leader needs to know where each employee will perform best when making the changes.
Case study
Dalman and Lei have different leadership qualities that have enabled their company to develop. They both have to use their unique leadership qualities, when they meet Venture Capital Group in New York. Dalman should shoulder the marketing needs of the business, as he has the character qualities required. Lei should handle the financial matters of the business, as he has the knowledge and qualifications necessary.
Before the meeting, the two leaders should brief each other on their responsibilities to reinforce each other when necessary. They must remain confident and focused on their venture, and should not get distracted by their shortcomings. This is because some leadership qualities and character traits are in-born and cannot be changed easily.