We were intrigued by WPP’s ANZ president Rose Herceg’s recent video yarn with Dan Krigstein about what it takes to be a great leader; both from the leader and disciple perspective.
The daughter of Croatian immigrants, Rose is one of the top leaders in the Australian advertising industry and demands respect the globe over.
“I am a huge believer in learning the things you don’t know,” she says. “Great leaders can see the opposing view. They take from that what is working, adapt it and (use it). Leaders that are dogged, leaders that are set in stone, that are set in concrete are not very good leaders.
“My favourite leadership style is people that say, this is my opinion, prove to me that it should be something else.”
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Herceg goes on to say that WPP has a culture where staff can disagree and speak up and that there are two traits that she values more than others in leadership: decency and honesty.
To us, a great leader embodies a blend of characteristics and behaviours that inspire, motivate, and guide others toward achieving a common goal.
Future-Proof
Great leaders have a clear, compelling vision of the future. They can see beyond the immediate and inspire others to work towards long-term goals. They are honest and have strong moral principles. Integrity is massive as well as it builds trust and sets a positive example for others to follow. Understanding and sharing the feelings of others is also crucial. Empathetic leaders can connect with their team on a personal level, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
They communicate clearly and persuasively, listen actively, and ensure that their message is understood by everyone, plus they can make tough decisions quickly and confidently. Decisive leaders weigh the pros and cons and take responsibility for their choices. They own it.
Open to Change
Another aspect is flexibility and an openness to change. A great leader can pivot strategies when necessary and stay resilient in the face of challenges. They motivate and encourage others to perform at their best. Inspirational leaders recognise and celebrate achievements, boosting team morale. Despite their achievements, great leaders remain humble. They are open to feedback, acknowledge their mistakes, and continuously strive for improvement.
Fast-Five Great Leader Traits
- Accountability: They take responsibility for their actions and the actions of their team. Accountability fosters a culture of trust and reliability.
- Problem-Solving Skills: They can identify problems, analyse them, and develop practical solutions. They approach challenges methodically and are resourceful.
- Delegation: They know how to delegate tasks appropriately, trusting their team members to take ownership and excel in their roles.
- Confidence: A confident leader instils confidence in others. They believe in their abilities and inspire others to believe in themselves.
- Passion: Passionate leaders are enthusiastic and committed to their work. Their passion is contagious and motivates others to share in their dedication.
By embodying all these qualities, a leader can effectively guide their team, achieve organisational goals, and create a positive and productive work environment! 💅🏼
Who is your fave leader and why? 👀
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