The first step in the definition of leadership is to define the characteristics of effective leaders. Effective leaders are always certain characteristics. By understanding what those characteristics are present, can we model these behaviors. Fortunately, Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner’s book, The Leadership Challenge studied for more than one million cases of effective leaders. According to their research, which we now know that the characteristics of a high effective leader honesty, competence are before they focused and inspiring.

Now that we have measured anything, as we speak of the measure? The most popular method is the use of stocks or surveys to ask others to evaluate a person in a variety of categories. The theme of self-assessment, as they do, and those willing to work with them (superiors, colleagues, clients or other persons) is in contact with the subject. Having collected all the data, then you may take a concrete view of what was once a subjective area.

One of the best examples of this type of inventory is the inventory of management practices (LPI) by Kouzes and Posner. After more than 25 years research, they have a relatively simple, easily understood and an enormous amount of data in a spreadsheet to compile, too. Once completed, the basis for leadership has been set. From this moment is about working on those areas that scored lowest on the list improved. To monitor the progress or, in some cases the lack of progress, we can use the LPI for an update “on, how to reuse their leadership qualities.

Once armed with this powerful information, it is essential that the results are interpreted and communicated very well. The Lake Wobegon effect tells us that the human tendency to overestimate their own achievements and abilities in relation to others. In our case, it is normal and expected for most people expect that the results are higher than they really are. It is strongly recommended to someone to choose a certified mediator for the people in this section. Without trained mediator, a person may by the end of year, the rejection of good research by a blow to their ego. With good coaching is the growth of an individual is almost unlimited. Finally met the man, the best thing of all this?

By following these guidelines, we can only measure the leadership of the individual, but he has a solid plan for the development years of research based armed. The results include an increase in leadership at all levels, increased job satisfaction, employee retention and others. What prevents you to measure your leadership skills today?