Does a man or woman have the right to lead without earning it!? It can be gained by election or appointment, but does position, title, rank, or degrees qualify anyone to lead other people!? It doesn’t come automatically from age or experience, either. So, the right to lead and become an effective leader can only be earned, and that takes time and learning!

The list of problems we are facing in the 21st century is daunting. From climate change to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, humanity’s survival will depend on leadership that can chart a course through an uncertain and turbulent sea of constant change.

Today, more than at any time in our history, we need effective leadership. We need leaders who are capable of finding solutions to the astonishing number of problems we face and the vision to anticipate and lessen the future problems that await us.

What is leadership?

Leadership is about guiding and influencing groups to achieve what they can't do alone. Surprisingly, some with formal titles fail at it, while others, without authority, inspire trust and energy through their actions.

Leadership isn’t something you’re born with; it’s a skill you develop. It’s all about the right mindset, behaviors, and getting results. Good leaders know their strategies must fit the situation and stage of their organization. The overall health of the organization is key to long-term success.

In business, those with strong leadership skills often rise to top roles like CEO or CIO. Think of tech leaders like Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Jeff Bezos—they’ve shown what great leadership can achieve.

But leadership isn't about fitting a mold. Today’s leaders come in all forms. What truly matters is their ability to spark enthusiasm, empower others, build confidence, and inspire those around them. It’s a big challenge, but let’s start by understanding what leadership really means.

Despite their diversity, exceptional leaders follow these daily practices.

Strategies leaders follow for success

Express positivity

Genuinely inspiring leaders remain islands of positivity and find the bright side of any issue in the face of challenges and failures. If you want to be truly inspirational, show others the silver lining.

Cultivate approachability

Tyrants with brilliant vision can only command a reluctant following. They burn people out before they get to see what they are capable of. Focus on approachability, humility, and positivity.

Be grateful

Nothing drains a team's commitment more than when their efforts go unnoticed. Leaders who do not show appreciation for their employees risk putting their businesses at risk. Even small gestures of gratitude show people that they matter.

Demonstrate a clear and compelling vision for the future

The greatest leaders have a vision so clear it seems as though it has already come to pass. Inspiring leaders know what their preferred future looks like and exactly how to get there. To truly inspire, know precisely what you are aiming to achieve.

Embraces change

Change is a constant in life, To be an effective leader, you should not only embrace change, and you should promote it.

Listens Actively

Hearing is not the same as listening. Inspirational leaders truly listen to what is said to them and respond appropriately. Practice an open door policy to receive your team’s feedback and encourage them to contribute to the common goal. This imparts a shared sense of value because everyone participates and everyone is important.

Transitions from authoritative to inspirational leader

There are many bosses out there leading companies but not enough leaders. The title of ‘boss’ only signifies power over others. To be called a leader, your must inspire your team through your actions and words to believe in a common vision.

Delegate wisely

The key to leadership success is to learn to effectively delegate both the responsibility for completing assignments and the authority required to get things done.

Emphasizes on sustainable solutions

No matter how difficult the problem, there is always a quick solution, and leaders are happiest when they are devising solutions to problems. The next time you have a problem to solve in your organization, deal with the cause of the problem instead of simply treating the symptoms.

Prioritizes people well-being

People are the most important asset of any organization. Without people, nothing is accomplished.

Sets realistic goal

Employees need goals to strive for. Goals give employees direction and purpose. Set specific and measurable goals with your employees and regularly monitor their progress.

Communicates effectively

Too many bosses do not communicate enough. Leaders must make every effort to get employees the information they need to do their jobs quickly and efficiently. An atmosphere of open, candid communication lets you make effective decisions.

Make time for employee engagement

Above all, leadership is a people job. When an employee needs to talk with you, make sure to set aside the time to do so, put down your smartphone and focus on the person standing in front of you.

Delegate wisely

The key to leadership success is to learn to effectively delegate both the responsibility for completing assignments and the authority required to get things done. The need to control every little thing that employees do is a recipe for disaster. When you delegate work to employees, you multiply the amount of work you can accomplish while you develop your employees' confidence, leadership and work skills.

Acknowledges and celebrates accomplishments

Every employee wants to do a good job. And when they do a good job, employees want recognition from their bosses. Recognize and reward employees for a job well done.

Fosters a learning and growing environment

In addition to continually learning as a leader, encourage your subordinates to constantly upgrade their own skills and knowledge.

The one thing that I would say defines me is I love to learn. I get excited about new things. I buy more books than I read or finish.”

Satya Nadela - Microsoft CEO

Foster a culture of risk-taking and innovation

Progress comes only through moving into uncharted territory and trying new things. Identify and reward your organization's risk-takers and innovators.

A team builder

Nothing is created without the effort of several individuals working together. Leverage the diversity and talents within your organization by creating teams.

Maintains a balanced perspective and avoids excessive seriousness

Without a doubt, running a company is a serious business. Products and services must be sold and delivered and money must be made. Despite the gravity of these responsibilities successful leaders make their organizations fun places to work. Instead of having employees who look for every possible reason to call in sick or to arrive late to work or go home early, organizations which work hard and play hard end up with a more loyal, energized workforce.

These principles form the basic foundation upon which a solid leadership structure can be constructed.

Final Thoughts

Explore Leadership Courses and Business Management courses from IIM's and Top Universities offered in collaboration with TalentSprint. Many potential C-suite leaders and managers require a different skill set to transition into their next role. Therefore, options such as a course can be a gateway to understanding digital and technological scenarios and their impact on businesses and market analysis to make well-informed decisions.