Walter Lippman when asked about the legacy of leadership reflected that “The final test of a leader is that he leaves behind in others the conviction and the will to move forward.”
Here are 12 inherited leadership traits. How do you measure up?
1. Legacy leaders are remembered most for their interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and their ability to quickly transform a group into a vision-driven team.
2. People do not remember inherited leadership titles as much as credibility, influence, compassion, understanding, patience, and integrity.
3. Legacy leaders are brave. They are willing to stand up for what is right and to take risks with quiet tenacity. They are willing to “go against the grain” to ensure the highest standards are maintained.
4. Legacy leaders look inward before acting outward. They know your motivations, vulnerabilities, and negative emotion triggers. They are authentic and easy to teach.
5. Legacy leaders know how and when to be quiet. They ask questions and take the time to research and discover all the details before forming an opinion or taking action.
6. Legacy leaders are teachers. They remember that the whole world is growing. They know that every day offers opportunities for continuous improvement, not perfection, and they encourage those they lead to live to learn.
7. Legacy leaders are accessible. They create safe environments in which others know they can bring concerns or new ideas.
8. Legacy leaders know how to balance management by influence and management by authority.
9. Legacy leaders are empowering. They ensure the success of those around them. They plan and train their successors. They inspire others to grow, to grow, through the support and positioning of others for success.
10. Legacy leaders don’t create more followers, they build more leaders.
11. Legacy leaders are visionaries. They envision the possibilities of tomorrow, see the potential of the organization, and then take steps to allow their people a chance to experience small successes on their journey toward achieving the vision.
12. Legacy leaders set an example of excellence, not perfection.
A legacy of leadership is what remains long after you leave the position. It is in your power to determine how others will remember you. Will you take action or will you just let yourself be carried away by the sunset?
Stephanie Y. Oden is the author of Ready, Set, Engage and is known as The Leader Builder. A thought leader in the areas of leadership with synergistic intent and team connection, Stephanie is a seminar leader, keynote speaker, and executive consultant. She helps individuals and organizations improve business results by having focused, motivated, and purposeful leaders.
