What Makes a Great Leader? Richard Ghilarducci Answers

Richard Ghilarducci on the Ideal Qualities of a True Leader



According to Richard Ghilarducci, there are many qualities that a business leader possesses. That said, which of these qualities actually separates a simply good leader from the elite great? Some would say it is charisma. Some would say it is determination. Others would say it is intelligence. However, what do all great leaders have in common?

Depending on the talent companies hire, Richard Ghilarducci mentions that employees can be complicated to deal with. They can be productive one day and seem unmotivated the next. Given how much money a company pours into recruitment and training, ending up with an unproductive employee could mean wasting thousands of dollars and possibly putting your company at risk. Great leaders can turn this all around.

Yes, great company leaders should be able to motivate and empower their employees in order to keep them passionate about their work as well as the company. Here are some of the best qualities of the best leaders, according to Richard Ghilarducci.

They are always willing to listen.

While most famous leaders are recognized for their commanding voice, not much has been said about how they had to listen to the people around them at first. So many individuals who history has remembered have been known to listen to the needs of everyone around them and fight for these needs.

A leader who truly listens to people in their charge understands them better. Listening also empowers the employee, knowing that the business leader is listening to and acknowledging their ideas.
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They are always willing to give second chances.

Companies that aim high often encounter huge problems in the process. Keep in mind that NASA didn’t reach the moon during its first attempt. That is why leaders should know how to forgive mistakes. Errors can be invaluable to teachers; they could cost thousands of dollars today. However, learning from them can save the company millions tomorrow.

They are always willing to share responsibility and success with the team.

In addition to that, Richard Ghilarducci points out that great leaders should share a brighter future with their employees. If you have people who stand out in the crowd due to their diligence and passion, provide them with growth paths so they don’t feel like their position is constricting their talent.

By giving them more tasks and rewarding them according to their efforts and accomplishments, these employees can later become the foundation of something that would be quite extraordinary.

Humboldt State University alumnus Richard Ghilarducci held leadership roles, including Chief Executive Officer. He was also a community leader and was elected Mayor for three terms. Read more about his leadership, communication, and management insights by following this page.