Leadership influence methods and essential characteristics of effective leaders

Leadership is a complex process involving the ability of an individual to inspire, motivate and redirect ways of thinking. It refers to the ability to bring out the best in oneself and others. In any set up, there must be rules and regulations to guide the relationships between people and activities. In a set up like an organization, there are goals and objectives that the organization aims to achieve. These objectives and targets rely on the ability of a leader to organize and direct activities towards their attainment. Leadership is the ability of one individual to stir the sentiments and behaviors of others towards the achievement of the set goals. The leader does this by transforming the goals to be a common goal to others.

Methods used by leaders to influence group members

Leaders can use power to get things done. How a leader uses these powers determines the success or failure of an organization. An organizational leader has power over rewards to employees. Employees get the motivation to work hard and deliver more if there are expectations of rewards. The rewards can be in the form of gifts or promotions. A good leader can use this technique to get the best out of the subordinates. Rewarding should be fair and just. They should be given to deserving employees and not on a discriminatory basis. A leader can influence group members by using their legitimate power. A leader is able to give final orders and commands. Leadership can influence the performance of duties in an organization through making direct orders and requests to subordinates. Legitimate power enables a leader to influence subordinate's behavior because of their formal position in the organization.

Leaders can also use their expert power to mobilize employees to work towards the achievement of set goals. A leader's knowledge in doing certain activities in an organization can influence others to perform effectively. Apart from the powers leaders have over other subordinates, leaders can also use influence to motivate employees. A leader can influence employees in various ways including leading by example, assertiveness and rationality. A good leader shows the best example to employees by how one performs duties in the organization. How a leader carries out activities in the organization can motivate or demoralize the performance of other employees. A leader with integrity influences other members of the group to work towards the same spirit.

2. Leadership characteristics and behaviors that is important in leadership career.

A good leader must portray desirable personal characteristics and values that are necessary in a leadership position. Leaders portray personal behaviors that distinguish them from other employees and make them role models. The key characteristics and behaviors of a good leader include:

Optimism and positive energy

A good leader is optimistic that the goals and objectives of an organization are achievable. Positivity and energy drives the urge to achieve the set goals of an organization.

Motivating and inspiring others

A leader should be able to influence and motivate others within the organization to direct their energy towards the attainment of objectives. Through a leader's actions, others employees get inspiration to achieve the best. A good leader encourages and gives direction to others in order to achieve a common goal.

Role model for integrity and ethics

Leadership requires showing a good example to others in the work environment. A leader who upholds work ethics is an example for the subordinates. A leader with integrity keeps his word and promises to relate to their work. Integrity enables a leader to be trustworthy.

Self-confidence and humility

A self-confident leader is able to listen to employees and accepts correction even from subordinates. Through self-confidence, a leader is able to project the future and make sound decisions. Humility enables a leader to understand his subordinates and interrelate with them. Humility is not oppressive, and it expresses compassion and care for those who are below a leader.

What a manager must do to become a transformational and charismatic leader

A good manager must be able to combine his intellectual abilities and knowledge with traits and behaviors that are desirable in a managerial position. To become a charismatic leader and manager, an individual must have the ability to influence and motivate people through emotions and inspirations. A manager can be a charismatic leader through improving his relationship with subordinates. A manager should be able to listen to the employee's complaints, suggestions and corrections. A leader is able to provide a vision and motivation to drive a project, but a manager can manage skills and available resources for the success of the project. To be a transformational leader, a manager must be able to combine skills, knowledge and vision. A transformational leader is able to raise consciousness and awareness on the importance of achieving a common goal. Transformation entails persuasion and conviction on the need to achieve personal satisfaction and that of the organization. Charismatic management is energetic and action oriented. A manager must have a desire to attain outstanding performance in their position.