Character in Leadership

        The late civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. encouraged his followers not to judge people by their appearance, but by the content of their character. A person's character, good or bad, can inspire others to greatness or discourage them from trying. In small business, the role of leadership character can't be understated. Authentic leaders lead from a strong, personal, moral value that can have a profound effect on your organization. You need to understand how character affects your organization and how it can attract top performers.

Matter of Trust

        Leadership must be trusted to make the smartest decisions and do the right thing, especially in difficult conditions. Trust is achieved by demonstrating competence and through strong character. Hiring executives must believe they can trust the leader as must employees who follow her. Once a leader's character is proven untrustworthy, her ability to lead will diminish. Keeping leaders who have poor character and can't be trusted will diminish morale.

Commands Respect

Good character in leadership commands respect. Besides being trusted, these leaders have the respect of their teams and even the competition. A person with good character is courteous, never demeaning. He is accepting of others and appreciates hearing opposing viewpoints. As a result of his willingness to listen and accept, his respect increases. People with poor character aren't respected because they have shown that they will not make good choices or make decisions that are in the interest of the team.

Brings Excellence

Leadership with good character brings a spirit of excellence to a small business. These leaders expect more than the status quo from themselves and the people they lead. This character attribute encourages team members to learn more and do more. With excellence comes responsibility. This leader takes responsibility for their actions, even when it means owning up to mistakes. They have a strong sense of accountability and expect the same from their team members.

Genuine Care

People with good character genuinely care about the people they work with. While a respectful distance must be maintained in working relationships, genuine concern for others is important for small business. Teams are often smaller than groups in large companies, commanding a greater need for stronger inner-company ties. This character attribute may manifest as caring concern, helpfulness and compassion.