9 QUALITIES TO BECOME A GOOD LEADER - NIK ZAFRI

These are insights I’ve gathered over the last 30 years through experience and observation. When I first wrote this in 1999, there were 14 points but I’ve since summarize them into 9 core qualities, refined to suit 2025 and beyond. I’ve made them clear, memorable, and practical for everyday leadership.

It's my version of "Leadership" module

Of course, it shouldn’t take you another 30 years to apply them. Who knows, your leadership journey might just begin today.

1) KNOWLEDGABLE 

A good leader must possess strong domain knowledge and be well-informed about the industry, current trends, and the specifics of the organization. This includes:

• Technical expertise and decision-making frameworks,
• Understanding the roles and responsibilities of the team,
• Being aware of external factors like market forces, regulations, and competitors.
• Staying updated through continuous learning, training, and reading.

Why it matters: A knowledgeable leader earns respect, gives informed direction, and avoids costly mistakes.

2) DO THE RIGHT THING

Integrity and ethics are non-negotiable traits of leadership. 

• Stand for principles even when it’s hard or unpopular,
• Uphold fairness, transparency, and accountability,
• Be a role model in behavior, honesty, and consistency, lead by example

Why it matters: People follow leaders they trust. 

Doing the right thing builds long-term loyalty and credibility.

3) HEAD TO THE RIGHT DIRECTION

Leadership is about setting and aligning everyone with a clear vision.

• Set logical, measurable and achievable goals based on strategic foresight,
• Align the team’s work with the organization’s mission and values.
• Periodically reassess the path to ensure relevance.

Why it matters: A leader without direction leads a team to confusion. Purposeful direction gives clarity and unity.

4) WORK HARDER

Effort and commitment are infectious.

• Show dedication and passion through your work ethic.
• Don’t shy away from getting your hands dirty when needed.
• Be willing to put in the extra time to support your team or resolve crisis.

Why it matters: Hardworking leaders inspire their teams to rise above mediocrity and follow by example.

5) THINK OF NEW WAYS

If you're a seasoned professional, you may need to work with the younger generation. Innovation keeps the organization relevant and competitive.

• Be open to change and embrace creative thinking,
• Encourage brainstorming and experimentation without fear of failure (should you fail, do it again),
• Look for improvements in processes, products, and people development.

Why it matters: Stagnation is the enemy of progress. Leaders must innovate to adapt and thrive.

6) MAKE THE BEST DECISION

Not a popular decision, but the best decision

• Decision-making is at the heart of leadership,
• Base your choices on facts, resources, data, experience, and intuition, 
• Involve stakeholders when appropriate, but take responsibility and to be accountable,
• Balance risks and rewards with long-term implications in mind.

Why it matters: The ability to make timely, sound decisions determines whether a team succeeds or struggles.

7) BUSINESS SUSTAINABILITY

Leadership must consider long-term viability, not just short-term gains.

• Balance economic success with environmental and social responsibility (ESG), 
• Invest in people, processes, and technologies that support sustainable growth.
• Make ethical decisions that preserve reputation and resources.

Why it matters: Sustainability ensures your organization endures and thrives in an ever-changing world.

8) BE A GOOD LISTENER

Effective communication starts with listening.

Practice active listening, seek to understand, not just to respond,

Show genuine empathy and openness to different views and feedback,

Use listening as a tool to detect problems early and build trust.

Why it matters: People feel valued and motivated when they are heard. It improves morale, loyalty, and problem-solving. (AND always reward good ideas)

9) CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT

Strive for excellence, not perfection.

Promote a culture where learning and improvement are continuous,

Encourage reflection, feedback, and growth - personally and organizationally,

Invest in upskilling, process optimization, and quality enhancement.

Why it matters: In a rapidly evolving world, continuous improvement is necessary to stay competitive and agile.

CONCLUSION 

"The impact of doing something is FAR more greater than doing nothing at all" - Nik Zafri

"True leadership is not about authority, it's about responsibility, humility, and vision" - Nik Zafri

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LEARN THE BASICS OF HOW TO TRULY BECOME A GOOD LEADER

 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY - DELEGATION AND MEASURING OF TASKS - 10 MARCH, 2024 - NIK ZAFRI

When assigning tasks, it's essential to reference the job description, roles, responsibilities, and authority, as well as the relevant procedures owned by the process owner. This is necessary to establish clear metrics and standards for measurement. Regular reviews of these tasks are crucial to prevent employees from feeling overwhelmed by additional responsibilities.

Sometimes, it may be necessary to adjust targets, such as reducing waste by 2% of a construction project valued at 1 million. However, aiming for a 2% reduction in waste for a construction project worth 1 billion may be unrealistic. Therefore, it's logical to consider lowering the target to 1% or even less in such cases.

Always take into account the specific industry you're involved in. I've witnessed many practitioners make the mistake of setting excessively high expectations, leading to high employee turnover.

Therefore, it's important to stay vigilant and open-minded. Conduct thorough research on any unfamiliar industry you encounter. Avoid generalizations or assuming that the same approach applies across all industries, as assumptions can have serious consequences.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY - INTELLIGENCE CAN SOMETIMES BE AN ANNOYANCE

Popularity alone doesn't guarantee respect; it must be earned. It's not always about skill or intelligence but about one's character. I know several renowned individuals who aren't actively seeking fame but are consistently praised for their admirable qualities.

Conversely, many bright minds face rejection, likely due to tendencies toward arrogance. The key lies in balancing intelligence with humility—a blend that embodies true wisdom.

A PIECE OF ADVICE TO MY PEERS

My advice to some of my peers :

When blessings come to you as a public figure—or an influencer, or a celebrity, or a leader, former CEO maybe—it's akin to a joyous celebration of life. However, when it's your time to step away, it's best to gracefully exit the spotlight.

Once you depart, it's a genuine departure. Embrace new endeavors—explore different professions or businesses, write books or great articles, cherish valuable moments with your family, and more.

Trust me, standing by your convictions earns admiration from others.  The positive actions you've taken will be remembered without needing your prompting. People may even feel proud to uphold your principles and continue your legacy. That's truly something worth cherishing.

There is another way for you to become relevant. It's when you are being asked or invited to a once familiar place or topic to you. It's more noble to be invited cordially rather than you yourself force into the action.

Do not linger beyond your invitation; once your task is fulfilled, gracefully step out of the spotlight once more.

Regrettably, some individuals cling to the limelight, pushing aside the new generation to maintain their place. These individuals will eventually face a disgraceful ousting, becoming a disgrace in the eyes of others as well.

SO YOU THINK YOU THINK YOU HAVE ALL THAT IT TAKES TO BE A LEADER? - BY NIK ZAFRI

Let’s look back into the basic principles of management by using the following checklist. Be honest, it’s always easier said than done.

I don’t need to know how you are doing, you should know 😊

Remember, leadership is a journey, and it takes time and effort to become a good leader. Embrace the challenges, adapt to different situations, and always strive to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential.

SHELDON YELLON - TRUE LEADERSHIP

#SHELDONYELLON #BELFOR