Pom in Oz with Derek Goforth: The traits a great leader need to inspire and motivate others to follow them

I have worked with and under some fine leaders in my time. I have friends, colleagues, and associates who excel in the art of leadership. But what makes not just a good leader, but a great leader? A great leader is someone who inspires and motivates others to achieve their full potential. They create a positive work environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best efforts towards achieving common goals. Have you ever worked somewhere where you feel everyone is pointing in the right direction? I think that requires leadership. One important and defining characteristic of a great leader is a clear and concise vision. Leaders armed with a strong and compelling vision are able to inspire and motivate others. They communicate that vision effectively to their team and provide a roadmap for achieving it. They are able to see beyond the immediate challenges and setbacks and focus on the long-term goals of their organisation or team. Another key characteristic of a great leader is integrity. Leaders who operate with honesty, transparency, and a strong moral compass gain the trust and respect of their team. They lead by example and hold themselves to the same standards of behaviour that they expect from others. Empathy is another important trait of a great leader. Leaders who are able to understand and relate to the needs and concerns of their team members are more effective at building trust and fostering collaboration. They are able to see things from multiple perspectives and are willing to listen to feedback and ideas from others. They are able to create a positive work environment where everyone feels valued and supported. I have worked for a few people who I felt “had my back”; I have never forgotten this. Effective communication is also critical. Leaders who can communicate clearly and effectively are better able to inspire and motivate their team. They can articulate their foresight and goals, provide feedback and guidance, and share information and resources in a way that is understandable and actionable. They are also good listeners and can engage in constructive dialogue with their team members. Then there is, of course, resilience. Leaders who can adapt to change, overcome obstacles, and bounce back from setbacks. They can remain focused and positive in the face of adversity and can inspire others to do the same. Finally, great leaders can build and maintain effective teams. They understand the importance of diversity and can leverage the strengths and skills of their team members to achieve common goals. They provide opportunities for growth and development and can cultivate a sense of ownership and accountability among their team members. They also recognise the importance of collaboration and can foster a culture of teamwork and co-operation. Derek Goforth is an expat of 13 years and father of three living and working in Geraldton