7 Traits of Truly Inspiring Leaders

The managers who inspire employees and colleagues to achieve greatness tend to have

these characteristics. Do you?

Purpose Inspiring leaders

believe that success serves a higher purpose.

When you ask what motivates them, they talk about making other people successful.

Uninspiring leaders believe that success is their higher purpose.

When you ask what motivates them, they talk about what makes them personally satisfied.

Giving Back Inspiring leaders

feel an obligation to "give back.“

Their long-term plans usually include pro bono work or even endowing a charity.

Uninspiring leaders feel no such obligation.

Their long-term plans are limited to cashing in and/or buying physical objects.

Gratitude Inspiring leaders

are deeply grateful.

They know that their success is hugely dependent upon accidents of birth and circumstance.

Uninspiring leaders are self-satisfied.

They secretly believe their success is a natural result of being smarter and better than everyone else.

Beliefs & Values Inspiring leaders

treasure their beliefs.

They don't wear their values on their sleeves, but their deeply held convictions spread through everything they say and do.

Uninspiring leaders impose their opinions.

They demand converts to whatever religious sect or management fad currently captures their fancy.

Empathy Inspiring leaders

care about people.

They agree with Bill Gates that the fortunate few have an obligation to help those who are less fortunate.

Uninspiring leaders couldn't care less.

They agree with Ayn Rand that the poor are merely "moochers" begging for a handout.

TEAM FOCUS Inspiring leaders

spread the credit. They never show

off about themselves. Instead they redirect praise toward everyone else on the team.

Uninspiring leaders spread the blame.

They are as quick to mention the mistakes of underlings as they are to toot their own horns.

Energy Inspiring leaders

are uplifting. You come away

from meetings with them thinking, Gee, I'd really like to work here.

Uninspiring leaders are depressing.

You come away from meetings with them thinking, Gee, I'm glad I don't work for that jerk.

Are there uninspiring leaders?

Absolutely. And they're often quite good at motivating people. They just use different tools: primarily fear and greed…..