Effective Leader Warren Bennis has interviewed hundreds of business leaders over the years and served as adviser to four US presidents. The essence of leadership is still character. The essence of character is integrity, passion, curiosity, daring and a guiding vision, without which a leader doesn't know what he wants to do or where he wants to go. In order to lead and keep great people, leaders must be articulate, energetic and empowering. They must be willing to inspire a collaborative approach that lets them tap into the endless source of ideas, innovation, know-how and knowledge of the people they lead.
Leaders are interested in direction, vision, goals, objectives, effectiveness and purpose.
But any manager can become a leader by setting hi her sights higher. Managers administer while leaders innovate. The best leaders care about both the small and big pictures. First, be your own best teacher. No one can teach you how to become yourself, to take charge, to express yourself.