Characteristics of an Admired Leader   We look for many special qualities in our leaders

Characteristics of an Admired Leader

We look for many special qualities in our leaders. Kouzes and Posner’s research indicates that the attributes listed below account for most of these qualities. From this list of twenty attributes, please select the seven you most look for in a leader—in someone whose direction you would willingly follow. Just place a check (√) by seven items; there’s no need to rank or rate them.

1

The Leadership Challenge Workshop, 4th Ed. Revised.

Copyright © 2010 by James M. Kouzes & Barry Z. Posner.

Reproduced by permission of The Leadership Challenge® A Wiley Brand

www.leadershipchallenge.com.

Ambitious (aspiring, hardworking, striving)

Broad-Minded (open-minded, flexible, receptive, tolerant)

Caring (appreciative, compassionate, concerned, loving, nurturing)

Competent (capable, proficient, effective, gets the job done, professional)

Cooperative (collaborative, team player, responsive)

Courageous (bold, daring, fearless, gutsy)

Dependable (reliable, conscientious, responsible)

Determined (dedicated, resolute, persistent, purposeful)

Fair-Minded (just, unprejudiced, objective, forgiving, willing to pardon others)

Forward-Looking (visionary, foresighted, concerned about the future, sense of direction)

Honest (truthful, has integrity, trustworthy, has character, is trusting)

Imaginative

(creative, innovative, curious)

Independent (self-reliant, self-sufficient, self- confident)

Inspiring (uplifting, enthusiastic, energetic, humorous, cheerful, optimistic, positive about future)

Intelligent (bright, smart, thoughtful, intellectual, reflective, logical)

Loyal (faithful, dutiful, unswerving in allegiance, devoted)

Mature (experienced, wise, has depth)

Self-Controlled (restrained, self-disciplined)

Straightforward (direct, candid, forthright)

Supportive (helpful, offers assistance, comforting