What does it take to be a good leader? At Perspective2, we have watched (and helped) a variety of leaders as they grow through meeting the challenges of leadership. We have developed a somewhat unique view of what it takes to lead.

Intelligence. Especially in the Silicon Valley, native intelligence seems to be what initially sparks the identification of an individual as a potential leader. Of course, in some cases it is not the right move for an excellent individual contributor to move into the role of a manager. That is because management skills, the ability to get work done through others, seem to be the second core requirement.

Judgment divides the “managers” from the “directors”. A leader needs to develop the maturity and judgment to manage their emotions and to put the good of the company ahead of any personal agendas. A leader also needs to demonstrate creativity, the ability to see beyond the established pattern or previous way of behaving and identify new ways to solve problems.

Most of the leaders we have worked with have progressed to this stage. However, only a small group does the hard work of developing self-knowledge and faith. We believe that leadership requires “using yourself as a tool”, being able to take on a role or a persona (and willingness to bear the responses to that persona) if the organization needs that kind of leadership. For instance, sometimes a group needs to react to authority, or needs to rest in the faith of undying optimism, or needs a leader that is willing to make the hard calls (all in spite of the true feelings of the leader).

This type of leadership takes courage – the courage to see your strengths and shadows. The courage to show yourself – both your “proud ofs” and your vulnerabilities. A leader must be able to look clearly at himself and use that self-knowledge in making choices about how to lead.

This type of leadership also requires faith – a deep belief that you are enough. A belief in the desire of people to grow and to find the best in themselves. A willingness to let go of control and walk bravely into the unknown with the core belief that you may not always succeed but you will learn, and with enough faith you will get where you need to be.

Only when you have developed all the qualities above, can you bring to a leadership role the ability to inspire belief in those you lead. This type of leadership is what, as one follower described, “challenges others to make miracles”.

Does this sound like the kinds of leaders you have known? Does it sound like the kind of leader you would like to be? The kind of leader you would like to hire? Come join us on the journey of developing true leadership.