3 CHARACTERISTICS OF GREAT LEADERS
The three triangles in the WLI logo symbolize the three characteristics of great leaders that we choose to highlight as foundational for success as leader in virtually any profession.
⃤ Intelligence
Intelligence (IQ and EQ) is defined as the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills which is usually summarized as an Intelligence Quotient (IQ). However, emotional intelligence (EQ) as defined by Coleman1 and Murphy2 is the ability for leaders to recognize their own emotions, and the emotions of others. This allows a leader to understand and recognize different feelings in others, appropriately label those emotions and use that EQ to guide, manage, and adjust emotions to adapt environments or achieve an organization’s goal(s)
⃤ Communication
Communication is the ability to relay your thoughts and ideas to others and also requires listening to others to understand how to best accomplish the aims or mission of the organization. Leaders need to have excellent communications skills and be able to understand the potential outcomes of decisions and communicate these outcomes to others.
⃤ Courage
Courage (decision making; speaking truth to power) the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty. Within courage is also the willingness to confront either physical or moral pain, uncertainty, or intimidation. In modern era, leaders need to have moral courage or the fortitude to make decision and act in the face of popular opposition, shame, scandal, discouragement, or sometime even encountering personal loss. Courage is a virtue that is not inherent in leadership.
