When all is said and done, the real crisis we face as a nation and business community comes down to a leadership dilemma.

Anyone can be a leader. Often leaders are placed into positions for “time-in-grade”, sometimes by default to fill a critical vacancy timely, sometimes because the individual is in the right place at the right time and steps forward to accept the challenge.

There are natural born leaders but these are few.

Most of us in leadership positions have to learn and practice the skills needed for success. The fact remains that those of us in leadership positions must make decisions on a regular basis that affect others.

Here are seven filters that separate strong leaders from anemic ones:

 1.    Decisions

Strong leaders are motivated by courage and character in their decision-making and are willing to stand by their principles. Weak leaders are motivated by fear. They worry about what others will think of the decision and elect the path that appears “politically correct” rather than the right thing to do.

2.    Insight

A strong leader displays wisdom in their decisions and the example exhibited. The weak leader touts knowledge and aloofness when dealing with those around them.

3.    Confidence

When things get rough the strong leader demonstrates genuine confidence. There is no need for “showmanship” during these times, the attitude is, “not to worry, we have been through this before and this is simply one more obstacle to overcome”.  Confidence displayed by the weak leader is staged at best.

4.    Integrity

The strong leader keeps their word, is always truthful, kind yet firm in dealing with others. The weak leader believes “the end always justifies the means” and will lie, cheat, bully or whatever it takes to reach a particular objective.

5.    Servant Leadership

The strong leader knows when to follow and knows when to lead. There is humility here. The true leader understands that leadership is also servant hood and provides the tools helping those under them to get the job done and to succeed. Success of the team is paramount! The weak leader is motivated by personal gain.

6.    Subordinates

The strong leader has successful subordinates encouraging, teaching and standing by them when things go wrong. This leader takes responsibility for them and demonstrates empathy. Subordinates of a strong leader are inspired to do their best, not just motivated. The weak leader tends to be more of a “people shrinker” rather than a people builder and suffers a demoralized team motivated by fear and blame.

7.    Results

In spite of road blocks the strong leader is able to achieve positive results yet also recognizes legitimate obstacles placed in their path knowing when to proceed and those impediments unworthy of the challenge. The weak leader quits.

What kind of leader are you and what about your boss?