7) What are the qualities of a great leader?

Dwight D. Eisenhower once said that leadership is “the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” And one of the most effective ways of inspiring and motivating others is knowing how to deliver your message.

“Communication is key,” says Kate Benson (M.S. ’95, above), founding managing director and president of executive search firm Martens & Heads! LLC in New York City. “If you’re the CEO of a global organization, it’s important to make sure your mission statement is succinct and solid and channeled through all levels of communication.”

When we think of great leaders, she adds, we think of people who can motivate others to follow them and learn from them. They must want to listen. 

In addition, great leaders are not afraid to hire smart workers. “This is especially important in the areas they themselves are not that strong in,” says Benson. “For example, a leader who comes from a financial background needs someone who knows marketing better than she does.”

Empathy is also important so you can come across as a real person. “You should be someone other people want to be like,” she says.

At her company, Benson invites workers into her methodology so they can better understand her objectives. They map out the path together so they feel like they are part of the process. It also gives her the opportunity to see what unique skills her employees can bring to facilitate success.

“Leaders are not just giving orders,” she says. “A great leader also lets people put their own spin on things.”

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