"Qualities of an Effective Leader"

The Student Activities Leadership Institute at Seminole Community College in Sanford, Florida, came up with the following character traits of an effective leader. How do you measure up?

Knowledgeable about leadership
Delegates
Knowledge of own strengths and weaknesses
Strong writing ability
Confident
Ability to speak in public
Communicates effectively
Patience
Passionate
Perseverance
Self-motivated
Able to say no
Experienced
Able to teach
Able to use different styles of leadership
Optimistic
Knows their purpose in life
Adaptable
Visionary
Assertiveness
Able to inspire others
Organized
Respects self
Flexible
Respect others
Great listener
Trust others
Creative
Friendly
Decisive
Fun to be around
Self-aware
Compassionate towards others
Dedicated
Forgiving
Mediate conflict
Resourceful
Persuasive
Proactive
Diplomatic
Energetic
Productive
Inquisitive
Detailed
Willing to change
Creates irreversible change in self/others
Willing to take risks
Efficient
Willing to be uncomfortable
Able to plan and set goals
Assess pass successes and failures
Builds consensus
Overcome setbacks
Work as part of a team
Stand for personal values and beliefs
Collaborate
Competent
Praise others for work well done
Responsible
Ability to give and receive feedback
Willing to trust feelings -- intuition
Personable
Accepting
Sense of humor
Willing to participate

If you are a student leader on your campus, use this list to maximize your strengths and build up your weaknesses. Some of the qualities listed above may have come naturally to you, but other qualities may still continue be a struggle for you; that’s okay. The key is awareness. The first step in fixing a problem is identifying the problem.

If you would like to see RealWorld University address any of the leadership qualities listed above, please feel free to write us with your comments and questions. Thanks for visiting RealWorld University, and please come again. And as always, live purposefully.