The Most Important Leadership Competencies, According to Leaders Around the World

195 leaders in 15 countries over 30 global organizations... asked to choose the 15 most important leadership competencies... grouped the top ones into five major themes ... difficult to master... because improving them requires acting against our nature...

high ethical standards conveys a commitment to fairness, instilling confidence ... when leaders clearly communicate their expectations, they avoid blindsiding people... safe environment [allows for employees'] ... social engagement, innovation, creativity, and ambition... Envision your funeral and what people say about you in a eulogy. Is it what you want to hear? ...

allowing employees to organize their own time and work... empowered teams are more productive and proactive, provide better customer service, and show higher levels of job satisfaction and commitment ...

creating connection is a leader’s second most important job ... Once we feel safe... we also have to feel cared for ... to unleash ... higher functioning prefrontal cortex...

While tunnel vision helps athletes focus, it closes the rest of us off to new ideas and approaches... To encourage learning among employees, leaders must first ensure that they are open to learning (and changing course) themselves... let people know that all ideas will be considered ... our relentless pursuit of results can also discourage employees ... create a culture that supports risk-taking ...

When leaders show a commitment to our growth... Employees are motivated to reciprocate... going the extra mile... managing through fear generates stress... quality of work is vastly different when compelled by appreciation ...