Leadership = Credibility (Trust)
I believe the foundation of leadership is credibility. The effectiveness of a leader will be directly proportional to the degree of his/her credibility. Therefore, what are the key factors to a person's credibility?
Below is a list of what I would consider to be key components to credibility. This list is not complete (also some points overlap) and the descriptions are not exhaustive.
- Calling – It is often said there are two different aspects to calling: internal and external. Internal calling is a persons own personal desire for the job. External calling is the testimony of others that they
think the person is the right leader for the job. Also note that with calling comes vision.
- Character – humility and integrity are the two key characteristics of great leaders. This cannot be underestimated!!!
- Competency – You can be called and also have great character, but if you are not competent your leadership will greatly suffer.
- Compassion – You have to genuinely care about people and have a servant's heart in leading them.
- Compelling – Great leaders inspire others…they bring out the best in everyone around them.
- Courage – Leaders sometimes need to make difficult decisions—this takes courage but this also takes wisdom to know when and how to do this.
- Commitment – Work ethic and perseverance are key ingredients for leading. People need to know the leading is willing to pay the price.
In Christ alone,
Frank Reich |
