What are some of the important characteristics of effective leaders? Which of th

Question

What are some of the important characteristics of effective leaders? Which of these characteristics are more difficult than others for engineers to acquire?

Question 5.4:

Motivation in the Assembly Shop was high. However, the Shop Manager notices that while the daily production was above average for the Shop, it drops down to a low during the first hour after the lunch break. The problem was further diagnosed to be that the operators tended to continue socializing until well after the lunch break. The shop Manager changed the lunch break and staggered it over a two hour period, so that the operators could not go to lunch together. To his surprise, the motivation began to fall and productivity dropped dramatically. What do you think was the problem? How do you advise the Shop Manager to fix this problem?

Explanation / Answer

Well, after going through the data available, the following are some of the important characteristics of an effective leader:

i) Risk Taker:

One of the most important as well as major characteristics of an effective leader is he/her ability to take risk in the working or functioning. An effective leader attempts to bring about great changes. These changes are not without risks.  Facing changes and challenges, as we get older is a part of life. This plays a vital role in the character of an effective leader.

ii) Self Control:

Another very essential as well as helpful characteristics of an effective leader is his or her self control while undertaking the routine work. Strong leaders know that their ability to stay calm, even in the worst of conflicts, is a character trait that must be nurtured and grown. Self-control will determine what is most important. This plays a vital role in the character of the leader.

iii) Balanced:

Another very important as well as useful characteristics of an effective leader is the balanced approach in his or her functioning on day to day basis. A good leader does not ignore any area of their personal life. They understand that to do well they must keep up good health, physically, spiritually, emotionally and mentally. This is a very important aspect of the whole character of an effective leader.

iv) Modest:

One of the most critical as well as major characteristics of an effective leader is the modesty in his or her character while dealing with different situations and problems. Self-evaluation is a strong characteristic of an effective leader. A good leader does not have a problem in being evaluated or receiving criticism. No one enjoys being corrected but an effective leader sees it for what it is: an opportunity for personal growth. This makes the whole character of the leader more effective.

v) Communicator:

One of the most important as well as useful characteristics of an effective leader is the way he or she communicates with others, be it his/her subordinates or his/her seniors. A good communicator aims to make sure that their message is understood. The skill of communication is grown upon the skill of listening. Listening is as important as talking. An effective leader listens more than they talk. This plays a vital role in the character building of an effective leader.

Frankly, nothing is too difficult to understand or learn for a human being. So, with practice and experience, one can adapt and develop these skills according to his or her needs.

Regards.

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