There are various models of leadership styles, and all of them have some traits in common, while still focusing on different ones. What has traditionally been required from a good leader remains relevant in many respects. However, some of those conventional skills and strategies may have become out-dated, and new leadership traits have to be introduced to create the best possible generation of the leaders of tomorrow.
Traits that have been regarded as necessary for a good leader are mostly similar in all leadership styles. These include taking responsibility and initiative, being always willing to learn something from one’s employees, never blaming others or making excuses, never attacking or belittling one’s subordinates, and treating all of them with dignity. Traditionally, good leaders are great communicators, able to inspire and empower others; they are professional, but compassionate, and can establish a trusting environment at the workplace.
While most of these features are still relevant to groom the next generation of leaders, it can be argued that some of them are not as important now. For example, taking initiative or constantly keeping control of one’s employees’ work. At the same time, other traits, such as quick thinking and flexibility, have to be improved to meet the challenges of the future. Technologies and digital labor change the marketplace significantly, so organisations and leaders have to adapt. They have to learn to “lead with more speed, trust and cooperation” (YouTube). Another approach that will have to be introduced is focusing on customers. Senior leaders of today tend to focus on reinforcing their ideas. Therefore, they should learn to help younger leaders and managers to find their solutions to different problems.
Reference
YouTube. “How to break bad management habits before they reach the next generation of leaders | Elizabeth Lyle.” TED, 2019. Web.