How Leaders Set Themselves Apart From Others

The question I am sure every employee asks is "what makes him a great leader and not me?". Well I know that I asked myself that question when assessing people I have worked for over my career. I think Jack Welch has said it best in his book "Winning". I have always been a fan of Welch and have read all his books and even was a stockholder of GE for many years. In his latest book, "Winning", I think he really articulates what leaders do and after re-reading this book for a 2nd time it finally hit home. So, what leadership knowledge has Jack imparted upon us, here are his eight key points:

• leaders relentlessly upgrade their team, constantly assessing their progress and evaluating them along the way
• leaders make sure people breath the vision set, not just see it
• leaders get into people's skin, through positive energy and optimism
• leaders establish trust and credit. There is transparency and candor with their style
• leaders have the courage to make unpopular decisions
• leaders probe and question how things are done to see additional opportunity or new methodology
• leaders inspire risk taking
• leaders celebrate

Also ask yourself does your CEO possess these qualities and if not how does your business rank against the competition. I would like to hear your comments. Also link to Meet the Boss.TV for more on leadership.