by Steve Adubato, PhD

Earlier this year I asked a group of executives, managers and sales people to complete the following sentence; A great leader is someone who…

In numerous seminars since I've been using this same exercise. The responses have been fascinating, and in many cases surprising. Clearly there is no one way to lead, yet there are a variety of traits in a person who most team members want to be lead by.

This week and next, we will explore the question of what makes a great leader regardless of the environment, service or product in question. So here goes.

A great leader is someone who…

Creates an open, supportive and collegial environment that promotes feedback from team members. This can't be a once in awhile thing. It has to be a way of life that greatly influences the daily work of a leader. Being open to feedback is particularly difficult when a leader is challenged, criticized or questioned. Yet, it is in fact these circumstances that provide a leader the opportunity to demonstrate his commitment to openness and candor.

Is committed to being a "coach" as opposed to simply being the "boss". Most leaders are teachers at heart. If you have no desire to be a mentor, you have no place being a leader.

Communicates a sense of calm in the face of a crisis. How a leader handles a difficult situation sends a powerful message as to what is expected to others on the team. A leader's actions can make a crisis worse or downright impossible. The choice is hers.

Turns obstacles and problems into opportunities. Again, the question is does the leader see the glass as half full or half empty? It's a question of perception and attitude. Most great leaders have a positive attitude.

Uses clear, concise language that minimizes misunderstandings or confusion. For example, "I need it by 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday" as opposed to, " I need it ASAP."

Catches people doing things right as opposed to being obsessed about catching people doing things wrong and playing the "gotcha" game. Interestingly, when people do things right a leader should acknowledge the team member both in private and in public. Conversely, when team members actually do make mistakes, it is essential for a leader to address the situation in private through one on one feedback and further direction.

Is a visionary who sees things that others don't because he is focused on the bigger picture. Micro-managers are usually terrible leaders. The problem is they are so caught up in the minutia and details that they can't see what's ahead.

Knows the strengths and weaknesses of the people on his team. This knowledge helps the leader make the best possible decisions regarding which team player should be in a particular position. Further, this allows the leader to play off someone's strengths while providing guidance around his or her weaknesses.

Knows his own strengths and weaknesses. This trait is critical if a leader is to continue his or her professional and personal development. Further, it allows a leader to put his or her energies where they are most valuable to the team.

Is not afraid to make tough decisions and take calculated risks. The tough part is being willing to accept a less than desirable outcome and learn from it. Some leaders are so afraid of the outcome that they'll do anything to avoid making decisions or taking risks.

Has tremendous integrity, not only in what he says, but more importantly through what he does.

These are just some of the traits of a great leader. Next week, I'll complete my list. To do that, I would love your feedback. Please write to me to complete the following sentence; A great leader is someone who...