Consumers Rank Top Leadership Traits
A recent GfK Roper Consulting survey asked consumers what leadership traits they find most appealing. These traits, as measured through a consumer lens, are ranked in importance as follows:
- Accountable 85%
- Knowledgeable 82%
- Honest 81%
- Effective 78%
- Integrity 78%
- Good listener 76%
- Flexible 72%
- People person 69%
- Visionary 68%
- Inspiring 62%
- Intelligent 59%
- Creative 57%
- Experienced 55%
- Strong 49%
What is interesting about this study is that it is a view into executive talent from a non-corporate perspective. Surprisingly, delivering results is something consumers did not identify as a valuable leadership trait. I think most business leaders would have that at or near the top of their lists!
Despite this oversight, these traits are helpful for employers and external recruiters to drill down to the most essential elements of a leadership role and the character dynamics they require to drive personal and organizational performance. At M Squared Consulting we always look for these leadership traits in our consultants. In addition to being subject matter experts, our consultants must have project leadership skills in order to deliver results for our clients.
