I see a number of important traits. Among the most important are forthrightness and integrity, relationship skills, empathy, and a desire to serve both others and the organization. And a good business leader shows an openness to learning from others, including subordinates, plus a sense of humility that balances the formal authority that comes with their position. Also, not everyone has to be in a formal position to be a leader. A professional can practice leadership as a follower, which is often called “leading upward.”