Marcia's Leadership Q and As: Number 1 Leadership Trait — Do You Have It?

Q. There’s constant change and uncertainty in the world! What’s the most relevant trait great leaders today should focus on developing?

A. For some people, this is very subjective territory. While there’s not one right answer, there are some leadership traits that are foundational. Some that come to mind are integrity, trustworthy, and respect. But there is one that is essential that I will share with you. 

First, I recall my first interview with my soon-to-be new boss of a management consulting firm (but he immediately taught me that he is not my “boss;” we are partners in work, and each add value to our role to serve our customers.) Business owner Dr. Perry Gluckman and I began the “interview.” He gave me seven leadership traits and asked me which were the four most important traits and why. Three hours later, we finished our discussion (I got the job.) I don’t recall those seven or even the four important traits I chose. In words, traits don’t matter. In actions, they’re imperative. 

As I’ve pondered this topic of leadership over recent months and watch how leaders use and abuse their offices, I’ve zeroed in on a trait that I’ve seen for decades in leaders. But for great, highly respected leaders, this trait rises to a new level. It’s been quietly used and rarely discussed. 

#1 Trait in Leaders Today: Curiosity

The number one trait that great leaders use is curiosity. Great leaders especially today are curious. They have an elevated, innate, dedicated commitment to learn and understand. They explore topics (in whatever medium they choose to consume new information) that they may know little about and that even don’t have anything to do with their current position or business. 

Curiosity opens their minds and hearts to new possibilities, opportunities, and beliefs. They commit time for their personal new learning daily. They are forever connecting the dots. They’re often systems thinkers and understand the value of making sure all the parts of their team or organizations are working together. 

Are you curious? Deeply curious? Would you buy and read three magazines totally outside your field, to understand another perspective or hobby? What might you learn? 

Questions are a common tool and asset to great leaders. Whether they’re an introvert or extrovert, their communication style is intense and focused. They want to know, to understand, to generate more learning and questions. 

Curiosity is a powerful driver for improving, innovating, serving, and building relationships and community. It has so much potential and is never-ending. 

The antithesis is arrogance, “knowing it all.” Executives who are not curious, assume, rarely ask questions, and make more unilateral decisions. Some people blindly follow them because they assume they have strength because they are so decisive, the opposite is true. Their positions or titles are about power and control. 

Great leaders know their role is to develop the natural leadership in everyone. They create a culture so people develop to their fullest potential. They support other people, helping all to be their best and contribute. A curious leader develops more curious leaders.