What is a leader?

• A leader is someone who inspires passion and motivation in followers.
• A leader is someone with a vision and the path to realizing it.
• A leader is someone who ensures their team has support and tools to achieve their goals.

A leader may be any of those things, but a good leader is all three.

What is the role of a leader?

Now you have a better understanding of who a leader is, but might still ask, “what does a leader do?” The age-old answer of “it depends” is pretty relevant here. The specifics of each leader’s role change based on the size of their team, organization, or base. It also depends on their values and goals –– both short and long-term.

In general, the role of a leader is to coach, guide, and inspire others. They motivate teams through challenging times and guide individuals through their career progressions. A leader manages individuals to keep teams aligned and working toward shared goals.

T1- Types of leader

• Leader by the Position Achieved: This type of leader gains authority and influence primarily through their formal position within an organization or hierarchy. They hold leadership roles such as CEO, manager, or team leader, and their authority is derived from their title or rank. While their position may grant them certain powers and responsibilities, their effectiveness as a leader often depends on their ability to inspire and motivate others beyond their positional authority.
• Leader by Personality, Charisma: These leaders possess charismatic personalities that naturally attract followers and inspire loyalty. They have a magnetic presence and are able to captivate and influence others through their charm, confidence, and persuasive communication skills. Charismatic leaders are often seen as visionary and inspirational figures who can rally people around a shared vision or cause.
• Leader by Moral Example: This type of leader leads by example, embodying strong moral values, integrity, and ethical behavior. They set high standards for themselves and others, and their actions consistently align with their principles. Moral leaders inspire trust and respect by demonstrating honesty, fairness, and accountability in their words and deeds, serving as role models for ethical conduct.
• Leader by Power Held: These leaders wield authority and influence through the control of resources, decision-making power, or access to information. Their leadership is based on their ability to reward or punish others and to make strategic decisions that shape the direction of the organization. While power-based leaders may be effective in achieving short-term objectives, their leadership style can sometimes be perceived as authoritarian or manipulative.
• Intellectual Leader: Intellectual leaders are known for their deep expertise, knowledge, and insights in a particular field or domain. They possess advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, and their ideas and innovations often drive progress and change within their organizations. Intellectual leaders are respected for their expertise and are sought out for guidance and mentorship by their colleagues and peers.
• Leader Because of Ability to Accomplish Things: This type of leader earns recognition and respect through their track record of achievement and success. They have a proven ability to deliver results and overcome challenges, and their accomplishments speak for themselves. Leaders who are known for their ability to get things done inspire confidence and trust in their ability to lead others towards achieving goals and objectives.