FLASHFACTS

Qualities of Exemplary Leaders

Leadership is a learned skill. There are many qualities and practices one must obtain to lead. Leadership experts Jim Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner PH.D have co-authored several books on leadership including, The Leadership Challenge. They point out the several qualities for leadership, which include honesty, credibility, and visualized goals.

Leaders must be able to enlist others in a shared vision (Inspiring a Shared Vision) of the future; therefore, your values must reflect the reasoning for these goals. You can lead by example (Model the Way), and that can be the best way to show your competence. Finding ways to measure success as you move toward your goal, will help to recognize achievements (Challenge the Process). Leading makes you accountable for the failures of the group; however, you must be thankful to others for accomplishments. It is important to bear the blame and share the appraisal. Giving credit to those around you builds confidence and develops a group
effort. (Enable Others To Act). By cultivating a sense of accomplishment you will inspire further success (Encourage the Heart).

James Kouzes has been cited by The Wall Street Journal as one of the twelve best educators in the U.S. The questionnaire that he and Dr. Posner created, Leadership Practice Inventory, has been administered to over 250,000 individuals, and is responsible for over 300 dissertations.

In Student Leadership Practices Inventory, Kouzes and Posners list five practices for exemplary leadership:

Model the Way
Find Your Voice- Establish what's important to you Set The Example- Align your actions with stated values

Inspire a Shared Vision
Envision The Future- Let others know your goals Enlist Others- People who share your vision

Challenge the Process
Search For Opportunities- Sometimes it's best to set achievable goals to get started Experiment And Take Risk- Seek innovative ways to grow and improve

Enable Others to Act
Foster Collaborations- Always say "we" Strengthen Others- Be a cheerleader by substituting criticism with encouraging advice

Encourage the Heart
Recognize Contributions- Use thank you notes or take time in the meeting for kudos. Celebrate The Values And Victories- Link member's achievements to the shared goal.

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