Leadership Characteristics

1. Course Project 3 Cynthia Kraft BUS 381: Solutions Focused Leadership Argosy University July 19, 2011

2. Integrity Integrity is keeping your word – doing what you say you will (Widener, 2000). For example, consistently keeping my promise and rewarding employees for a job well done.

3. Optimistic and Embraces Change People want to follow those that will lead them to a “brighter tomorrow.” Leaders that can inspire hope. Sometimes this requires change. Leaders will help others recognize the benefits and growth in doing things differently (Widener, 2000). One way I’ve exhibited optimism and change is by showing my employees the personal benefits, e.g. increased personal marketability, by learning to do a task differently than in the past.

4. Risk Taker and Tenacious Trying something new is risk taking (Widener, 2000). For me, it’s changing careers at 60! Tenacity is never giving up (Widener, 2000). Tenacious people live by the motto “Try, try again.” I’ve been tenacious in completing my formal education, despite numerous obstacles.

5. Catalytic and Committed People follow those who can inspire to action and demonstrate the importance of a task or goal (Widener, 2000). This is currently in operation as I lead my team towards, and through, an upcoming Title IV compliance audit. Much is resting on the outcome. Everyone is “pulling together” to have the best audit the school has ever had, which we hope will be reflected in reduced audit fees!

6. My Plan I plan to continue growing and improving by building on my strengths through mentoring others. I plan to be more cognizant of my weaknesses and allowing others to compensate for them with their strengths while learning from them how to improve myself. Let the teacher become the student – and vice versa!

7. References Widener, C. (2000). Top 7 character traits of extraordinary leaders. Top7Business.com. Retrieved July 14, 2011 from http://top7business.com/?Top-7-Character- Traits-Of-Extraordinary-Leaders&id=442