Leadership characteristics are not simple to define. Each leader has his own characteristics. Exemplary leaders share some common features. Influencing team members to work hard and stay committed to achieve the overall organizational goals are necessary attributes of a leader. A leader falls into to categories, task oriented or people oriented. Interested in training, performance and in winning are the characteristics of a task oriented leader. While concentrating more on interpersonal relationship are the features of a people oreinted leader.

A leader must possess certain characteristics which he wants to incorporate into his team. The essential qualities of a leader are discipline, self confidence etc. As he is the role model for the followers, his movement will be keenly watched by others. Consequently, when performing everday task a leader must be careful, becasue he is constantly be observed.

Leaders are not born but made by hard work. Important leadership characteristics are work ethic and intelligence. A leader must make decisions after analyzing each and every aspect of the situation and must be able to use common sense in accomplishing complex tasks. Selecting the right strategy to tackle the situation is a must for a leader. Adaptability to various situations and willingness to accept changes are crucial to leadership.

A good leader must be able to motivate his team members to achieve success. He must create excitement and confidence in accomplishing a task. He must be easily approachable to his subordinates. A great leader is one who is a master in the art of communication. He must be ready to listen to the words of his team members. Two way communication is therefore essential in leadership.

A leader must be able to push the entire effort of his team. Using the full potential of each member should be within his capacity. He must give opportunities to team members to prove their skills.

One who guides a team and not rules the team is a sign of a great leader. One of the crucial leadership characteristics is providing a trusting and open environment to the team members. Where they can learn and grow is the type of environment that should be provided to the team. A strong sense of vision is yet another characteristic of an excellent leader.

Apart from the above characteristics mentioned, a good leader must have the following characteristics:

1. Self esteem - A leader must have the important quality of self esteem to help face tough challenges.

2. Need to achieve - a leader must be goal oriented and must be able to strive hard to achieve the goals. He should be ready to take risks. A good leader is one who takes moderate and but not extreme risks.

3. Screening for opportunity - Having the ability to screen opportunities as useful and useless are a must for a leader. Any small opportunity missed by his competitors he quickly seizes.

4. Optimism - Being an optimist is a must characteristic. Have the ability to see problems as challenges. Views an obstacle as a way to a new direction.

5. Courage - one who has courage to face challenges is a trait of an outstanding leader. Risk taking is a crucial characteristic of a leader. Also, having the ability to make changes and to accept changes.