What Does It Mean to be a Leader in Business?

Leadership is a bone of contention in South Africa at the moment as the nation begs for strong leadership going forward. In any situation strong leadership makes all of the difference and the business sector is no exception.

What does it mean to be a leader in business? There are so many definitions of leadership that I wont attempt to make yet another definition, however here are a few traits that would cause me to follow someone in business:

• Someone who is flexible, yet firm
• Someone who communicates well
• Someone who persists when things are tough and inspires me to do so too
• Someone who is confident, yet humble
• Someone who takes on responsibility
• Someone who has vision and gives direction
• Someone who empowers
• Someone who mentors
• Someone who is courteous and caring
• Someone who loves what they does
• Someone who makes me excited about work

I would happily work alongside and support such a leader in business. What traits inspire you in leaders?