Business success requires strong managers who lead the way to help others to accomplish their goals. Yes, being a go-getter, decision-maker, and resource-finder is important. But, all of these need to be built upon a foundation of strong personal leadership traits.
What It Takes to Lead – 6 Traits of a Good Leader
- Ethical foundation: All leaders must have a solid ethical foundation. Financial leaders need a strong ethical framework from which to base their decisions. Accountants and CFOs must be rigorously and scrupulously honest, providing the clearest picture they can of the businesses’ situation and finances so that managers can make decisions. Without the foundation of honesty, business leaders will make decisions based on incorrect assumptions and facts.
- Work-life balance: All work and no play does indeed make Jack or Jill dull. Good leaders understand that while hard work is valuable, family relationships and friendships, health and wellness are all equally important. Good leaders prioritize around their families and engage in physical exercises and other pursuits to cultivate wellness. Work-life balance is an integral part of a whole person and one of the hallmarks of a mature leader.
- Leading by example: Good leaders do not make demands or act as dictators. Instead, they lead by example. They exhibit the personal characteristics and work routines they desire others in the company to follow.
- Peer and subordinate relationships: Leaders also cultivate good working relationships with both peers and subordinates. They get on equally as well with the CEO and the cleaning crew. They know the importance of teamwork and that the company is made up of teams working harmoniously, not one superstar or leader who gets all the glory.
- Cross-functional teams: Strong leaders are also equally well-versed in other jobs as well as their own. They can step into a task if needed. They understand the work of others and demonstrate respect for others’ competencies.
- Clear communications: One of the most notable attributes of a strong leader is their ability to clearly communicate goals, objectives and related information. They not only communicate as necessary but communicate proactively, offering information that’s helpful to others working on projects. They don’t guard or hold information to themselves.
How did you stack up? Do you have the traits or characteristics of a good financial leader?
If you do, congratulations. If you don’t, consider finding a mentor to help you build on your strengths and overcome your weaknesses. Mentors may be found among your peer groups, professional organizations, or other areas that put you into contact with leaders. You don’t necessarily have to find a financial mentor either; you can find any leader who has the skills you seek to cultivate to mentor you.
ASI, Here to Support Your Financial Success
Accounting Systems Incorporated (ASI) provides software and services to help small and mid-sized businesses achieve their business goals. Software such as Acumatica ERP, and Sage 100, Sage BusinessWorks can provide the time-saving information that you need to grow your company. For more information, visit our website, or call us at 803-252-6154.