Outstanding Leaders and the Organizations They Build

I am often asked by clients and peers what defines great leadership and which character traits distinguish truly outstanding leaders. There are countless studies attempting to answer this question, and yet the most accurate response remains: it depends. The state of the company, the industry, and key stakeholders will always influence what kind of leadership is needed for success.

Recently, I came across three key traits that truly resonated with me: 1. Self-awareness, 2. Self-control, and 3. Empathy.

As a strong believer in strengths-based leadership, I see self-awareness as the foundation. Great leaders know their natural talents and how to turn them into strengths, leveraging them fully when leading people, shaping strategy, and recognizing when it is time to move on to new challenges.

Self-control may not be the first trait that comes to mind, but it is indispensable. Leaders who remain calm when others panic, and focused when others scatter, build trust and stability. People naturally follow those who appear grounded and decisive, especially when stakes are high.

Finally, empathy enables leaders to connect, motivate, and retain the people who make all the difference. It is not a soft skill; it is a strategic one. And while some have it naturally, everyone can develop it with conscious effort and practice.

If we extend these three traits to organizations, we might say that outstanding companies also demonstrate strength-based execution (self-awareness), resilience (self-control), and purpose (empathy); the collective reflection of outstanding leadership.

As an Executive Coach, I help leaders strengthen these capabilities; to know themselves, stay composed, and lead with empathy to achieve outstanding results.

I would love to hear your perspective: Which of these traits do you find most critical for leadership today?