Looking for a leadership role model? Look for these 7 qualities 🫡

Think leadership is about fancy titles, corner offices, or millions in the bank?

Think again!

From the fearless barista who tackles rush hour to the grandma who builds bridges with her smile, learn how to spot the surprising heroes who can show you the way.

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See it, believe it, achieve it — role models prove what's possible and fuel your own leadership potential.

Or they can do something as simple as help you decide what kind of leader you want to be.

So, find your compass and let that person guide your journey.

Leadership can be many things, and people often have differing opinions about which qualities are key.

So, you'll need to decide for yourself which qualities are most important to you.

Here are just a few to get you thinking.

1. Communication 🎙️

Leaders communicate clearly, listen actively, and adapt their style to different audiences.

2. Vision 🔭

Leaders set clear goals, inspire others to believe and keep everyone focused on the end game.

3. Decision-Making 🤔

Leaders analyze information, weigh risks and rewards, and act decisively in the face of uncertainty.

4. Resilience 🏀

Leaders stay motivated in the face of challenges, learn from mistakes, and adapt to changing circumstances.

5. Empathy 🫶

Leaders understand and care about others, build trust, and create a positive team environment.

6. Collaboration 💪

Leaders value collaboration, recognise diverse strengths, and create space for everyone to contribute.

7. Integrity 💎

Leaders hold themselves and others accountable, act with integrity, and build trust.

Once you've got to grips with the leadership traits you prize most, you can begin to identify some role models.

As mentioned, these do not have to be famous or rich people — although, of course, they can be! What matters is that they're people who jibe with your principles and embody the qualities you wish to master.

You might chose to identify your role models with the help of a concept board or a mind map, because these are great ways to organize your thoughts.

Start by choosing the qualities that are most important to you.

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Next, take one of the qualities, and think of people you admire for having that skill or trait.

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Then, you can add specific examples of things that the person did or said, which showed off this quality.

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Continue in the same way with the rest of your mind map, and soon, you'll have a clear picture of the qualities you value, the people you admire, and the actions you want to emulate.

You're likely to have the same person attached to more than one quality on your mind map.

Perhaps your uncle is an excellent communicator, a good decision-maker, and a brilliant visionary.

This is great because when you see a name appearing twice, three times, or more, you can begin to focus on that one role model.

You're unsure who to choose as your leadership role model from two equally accomplished people. What factor should be most important in making your final decision?

A. The industry or field they work in, as it aligns with your career aspirations.

B. The specific challenges they have overcome and the lessons learned from their journey.

C. The personal connection you feel with their story and the values they represent.

D. The number of followers or fans they have on social media.

To find the perfect role model to help you on your leadership journey, take these next steps.