Having a great idea, and assembling a team to bring that concept

to life is the first step in creating a successful business venture.

While finding a new and unique idea is rare enough; the ability to
successfully execute this idea is what separates the dreamers from
the entrepreneurs. However you see yourself, whatever your age
may be, as soon as you make that exciting first hire, you have taken
the first steps in becoming a powerful leader. When money is tight,
stress levels are high, and the visions of instant success don’t
happen like you thought, it’s easy to let those emotions get to you,
and thereby your team. Take a breath, calm yourself down, and
remind yourself of the leader you are and would like to become.
Here are some key qualities that every good leader should possess,
and learn to emphasize. Honesty Whatever ethical plane you hold
yourself to, when you are responsible for a team of people, its
important to raise the bar even higher. Your business and its
employees are a reflection of yourself, and if you make honest and
ethical behavior a key value, your team will follow suit.
george_washington_511-1 As we do at Onevest, the crowdfunding
platform for entrepreneurs and small businesses I co-founded, try
to make a list of values and core beliefs that both you and your
brand represent, and post this in your office. Promote a healthy
interoffice lifestyle, and encourage your team to live up to these
standards. By emphasizing these standards, and displaying them
yourself, you will hopefully influence the office environment into a
friendly and helpful workspace. Ability to Delegate Finessing your
brand vision is essential to creating an organized and efficient
business, but if you don’t learn to trust your team with that vision,
you might never progress to the next stage. Its important to
remember that trusting your team with your idea is a sign of
strength, not weakness. Delegating tasks to the appropriate
departments is one of the most important skills you can develop as
your business grows. The emails and tasks will begin to pile up, and
the more you stretch yourself thin, the lower the quality of your
work will become, and the less you will produce. The key to
delegation is identifying the strengths of your team, and
capitalizing on them. Find out what each team member enjoys
doing most. Chances are if they find that task more enjoyable, they
will likely put more thought and effort behind it. This will not only
prove to your team that you trust and believe in them, but will also
free up your time to focus on the higher level tasks, that should not
be delegated. It’s a fine balance, but one that will have a huge
impact on the productivity of your business. Communication
Knowing what you want accomplished may seem clear in your
head, but if you try to explain it to someone else and are met with a
blank expression, you know there is a problem. If this has been
your experience, then you may want to focus on honing your
communication skills. Being able to clearly and succinctly describe
what you want done is extremely important. If you can’t relate your
vision to your team, you won’t all be working towards the same
goal. Training new members and creating a productive work
environment all depend on healthy lines of communication.
Whether that stems from an open door policy to your office, or
making it a point to talk to your staff on a daily basis, making
yourself available to discuss interoffice issues is vital. Your team
will learn to trust and depend on you, and will be less hesitant to
work harder. Sense of Humor If your website crashes, you lose that
major client, or your funding dries up, guiding your team through
the process without panicking is as challenging as it is important.
Morale is linked to productivity, and it’s your job as the team
leader to instill a positive energy. That’s where your sense of
humor will finally pay off. Encourage your team to laugh at the
mistakes instead of crying. If you are constantly learning to find the
humor in the struggles, your work environment will become a
happy and healthy space, where your employees look forward to
working in, rather than dreading it. Make it a point to crack jokes
with your team and encourage personal discussions of weekend
plans and trips. It’s these short breaks from the task at hand that
help keep productivity levels high and morale even higher. Britain
Basks In Sunshine As The Easter Holidays Get Underway At
Onevest, we place a huge emphasis on humor and a light
atmosphere. Our office is dog friendly, and we really believe it is
the small, light hearted moments in the day that help keep our
work creative and fresh. One tradition that we like to do and brings
the team closer is we plan a fun prank on all new employees, on
their first day. It breaks the ice and immediately creates that sense
of familiarity. Confidence There may be days where the future of
your brand is worrisome and things aren’t going according to plan.
This is true with any business, large or small, and the most
important thing is not to panic. Part of your job as a leader is to put
out fires and maintain the team morale. Keep up your confidence
level, and assure everyone that setbacks are natural and the
important thing is to focus on the larger goal. As the leader, by
staying calm and confident, you will help keep the team feeling the
same. Remember, your team will take cues from you, so if you
exude a level of calm damage control, your team will pick up on
that feeling. The key objective is to keep everyone working and
moving ahead. Commitment If you expect your team to work hard
and produce quality content, you’re going to need to lead by
example. There is no greater motivation than seeing the boss down
in the trenches working alongside everyone else, showing that hard
work is being done on every level. By proving your commitment to
the brand and your role, you will not only earn the respect of your
team, but will also instill that same hardworking energy among
your staff. It’s important to show your commitment not only to the
work at hand, but also to your promises. If you pledged to host a
holiday party, or uphold summer Fridays, keep your word. You
want to create a reputation for not just working hard, but also be
known as a fair leader. Once you have gained the respect of your
team, they are more likely to deliver the peak amount of quality
work possible. Positive Attitude You want to keep your team
motivated towards the continued success of the company, and keep
the energy levels up. Whether that means providing snacks, coffee,
relationship advice, or even just an occasional beer in the office,
remember that everyone on your team is a person. Keep the office
mood a fine balance between productivity and playfulness. If your
team is feeling happy and upbeat, chances are they won’t mind
staying that extra hour to finish a report, or devoting their best
work to the brand. Creativity Some decisions will not always be so
clear-cut. You may be forced at times to deviate from your set
course and make an on the fly decision. This is where your
creativity will prove to be vital. It is during these critical situations
that your team will look to you for guidance and you may be forced
to make a quick decision. As a leader, its important to learn to
think outside the box and to choose which of two bad choices is the
best option. Don’t immediately choose the first or easiest
possibility; sometimes its best to give these issues some thought,
and even turn to your team for guidance. By utilizing all possible
options before making a rash decision, you can typically reach the
end conclusion you were aiming for. Intuition When leading a team
through uncharted waters, there is no roadmap on what to do.
Everything is uncertain, and the higher the risk, the higher the
pressure. That is where your natural intuition has to kick in.
Guiding your team through the process of your day-to-day tasks can
be honed down to a science. But when something unexpected
occurs, or you are thrown into a new scenario, your team will look
to you for guidance. Drawing on past experience is a good reflex, as
is reaching out to your mentors for support. Eventually though, the
tough decisions will be up to you to decide and you will need to
depend on your gut instinct for answers. Learning to trust yourself
is as important as your team learning to trust you. Ability to Inspire
Creating a business often involves a bit of forecasting. Especially in
the beginning stages of a startup, inspiring your team to see the
vision of the successes to come is vital. Make your team feel
invested in the accomplishments of the company. Whether
everyone owns a piece of equity, or you operate on a bonus system,
generating enthusiasm for the hard work you are all putting in is so
important. Being able to inspire your team is great for focusing on
the future goals, but it is also important for the current issues.
When you are all mired deep in work, morale is low, and energy
levels are fading, recognize that everyone needs a break now and
then. Acknowledge the work that everyone has dedicated and
commend the team on each of their efforts. It is your job to keep
spirits up, and that begins with an appreciation for the hard work.
1. Do you think this reading deals mostly with facts or mostly with
opinions? Why?
This reading deals mostly with opinions. It shares insights, advice,
and perspectives on qualities that a good leader should possess,
along with personal anecdotes and examples from the author’s
experience. While there are some practical concepts mentioned,
such as delegating tasks and maintaining communication, the
overall tone is subjective, reflecting the author’s personal approach
to leadership. For example, the emphasis on humor, commitment,
and intuition is a reflection of the author's belief in their
importance rather than an objective fact. These are qualities that
might work well for one person or company but may not universally
apply to all business contexts.

2. The ten qualities suggested by the author largely align with qualities that are
typically associated with effective leadership. Some of the qualities I identified in the
"Before You Read" section may include traits like:

1. Honesty: This is universally regarded as a core leadership trait in both the "Before You Read"
section and the author's list.
2. Communication: Clear and effective communication is often considered essential for any
leader, which also matches with what the author suggests.
3. Confidence: Being confident in decision-making and guiding the team through tough times is
another common leadership trait that matches the author's view.
4. Commitment: The author emphasizes leading by example and being committed to the brand,
which is similar to other sources on leadership.
5. Positive Attitude: Maintaining a positive atmosphere in the workplace is a commonly
recognized trait of effective leadership.

However, some qualities suggested by the author might be less universal or not
always explicitly mentioned in general leadership discussions, such as:

 Sense of Humor: While important in building morale, this may not always be emphasized in
leadership discussions, depending on the work culture.
 Creativity: This might not always be considered an essential leadership trait for all types of
businesses, though it is valuable in certain contexts like startups or industries requiring
innovation.
 Intuition: The idea of relying on gut instinct might resonate more with experienced leaders
or those in more ambiguous environments, but it may not be a focus for every leader.

Overall, the qualities identified in both the author's section and the "Before You
Read" section share many common elements but can vary depending on the
leadership context.

3. Yes, there are several qualities mentioned in the list that the author does not
include, and they could be valuable in a leadership context. Below are a few qualities
not highlighted by the author, along with reasons to convince her of their importance:

Has a Business Degree: While the author focuses on leadership traits like
communication and intuition, having formal education (like a business degree) is
important because it provides a strong foundation in business theory, management
principles, and strategy. A business degree helps leaders make informed decisions and
understand core business functions such as marketing, operations, and
[Link] to convince the author: A solid educational background ensures that
leaders not only rely on their personal experiences and instincts but also have the
theoretical knowledge needed to guide their teams through complex business
challenges. This formal understanding of business principles can make the leader
more adaptable and strategic in long-term decision-making.

Excellent Computer Skills: In today’s digital world, strong computer skills are
crucial for business leaders to manage digital communication, data analysis, project
management, and even virtual collaboration. How to convince the author: The
modern workplace requires leaders to be proficient with technology, as it can
streamline operations, improve communication, and drive efficiency. Without basic
computer skills, leaders may struggle to keep up with evolving tools and systems that
are essential in a competitive business environment.

Knows a Lot About Finance: The author focuses more on emotional intelligence and
interpersonal skills, but financial literacy is another critical leadership skill. A leader
who understands finance can better manage budgets, forecast growth, and make data-
driven decisions for the sustainability of the business. How to convince the author:
Financial knowledge allows a leader to understand the financial health of the
company, allocate resources wisely, and make sound business decisions. A leader
who can interpret financial reports and understand cash flow will make better
decisions, ensuring the long-term success of the company.

Treats Subordinates Fairly: While the author mentions leadership qualities like
communication and commitment, the idea of fairness could be more explicitly
addressed. Treating team members fairly ensures trust, loyalty, and a healthy work
culture. How to convince the author: A fair leader ensures that each team member
feels valued, which is essential for morale and productivity. When employees feel that
their contributions are respected and that they are treated equally, it fosters a positive,
collaborative environment.

Polite to Others: While the author mentions qualities like honesty and humor, the
importance of basic politeness and respect in daily interactions might not have been
emphasized enough. How to convince the author: Politeness is a fundamental aspect
of professional relationships. Leaders who consistently exhibit courtesy, active
listening, and respect in all interactions can build stronger rapport with their teams
and clients. These actions promote trust and a respectful work environment.

Works Long Hours: While the author discusses commitment, the idea of working
long hours might be indirectly implied in the sense of leading by example, but it’s not
explicitly listed. The ability and willingness to put in the time and effort necessary to
achieve business goals can set the tone for the entire team. How to convince the
author: A leader who demonstrates dedication by working long hours when
necessary shows that they are fully invested in the success of the company. This
commitment can inspire the team to adopt a similar work ethic, especially in the early
stages of a startup or during high-pressure times.

These qualities are critical for business leadership in today’s environment, and
emphasizing them alongside the qualities the author already listed can create a more
well-rounded and successful leadership approach.
1. Introduction: Importance of Leadership in Entrepreneurship

 The article introduces the idea that having a great business idea and assembling a team to
bring it to life is the first step towards a successful business. It highlights that the ability to
execute the idea and lead a team is what distinguishes dreamers from entrepreneurs.

2. Honesty in Leadership

 A leader’s honesty and ethical behavior are essential for setting a standard in the business.
The leader’s values reflect in the team’s behavior. By promoting and living these values,
leaders can create a positive and productive work environment.

3. Ability to Delegate

 Delegating tasks effectively is crucial for a growing business. Leaders need to trust their team
members and delegate work based on their strengths. This allows the leader to focus on
higher-level tasks, ensuring that productivity remains high and the quality of work does not
suffer.

4. Communication in Leadership

 Clear and effective communication is essential for a leader. If a leader cannot communicate
their ideas clearly, the team will not align with the company’s vision. A leader should be able
to explain their goals and expectations to ensure the team is working towards the same
objectives.

5. The Role of Humor in Leadership

 Humor is an important tool for a leader to maintain morale. In difficult situations, a leader’s
ability to remain calm, make light of mistakes, and keep the atmosphere positive helps
prevent stress from affecting the team’s productivity.

6. Confidence in Leadership

 Confidence is vital for a leader, especially in challenging times. Leaders need to stay calm
under pressure, as their behavior sets the tone for the rest of the team. Remaining confident
and reassuring helps keep the team focused and motivated, even when setbacks occur.

7. Commitment to the Organization

  A leader’s commitment is key to earning the respect of the team. Leaders must be
committed to the work and follow through on promises. Leading by example, showing hard
work, and being fair to the team strengthens the leader’s credibility and the team’s work
ethic.

8. Positive Attitude and Motivation

 A positive attitude is important for maintaining team motivation. Leaders should create a
balance between productivity and fun in the office, encouraging their team to stay upbeat. A
motivated team is more likely to put in extra effort and deliver high-quality work.

9. Creativity in Problem Solving

 Leaders need creativity when making decisions, especially when challenges arise. Thinking
outside the box and involving the team in decision-making helps find the best solutions.
Leaders should avoid rushing into decisions and instead carefully consider options to ensure
better outcomes.

10. Intuition in Leadership

 A leader’s intuition becomes essential in uncertain or high-pressure situations. When leading

through uncharted waters, leaders must rely on their gut instincts to guide the team and
make decisions. Trusting one’s experience and instincts is vital to navigating complex
challenges.

11. Ability to Inspire and Motivate

 Inspiring the team with a vision for the future is crucial for long-term success. Leaders should
ensure that the team feels involved and valued. Recognizing hard work and providing
encouragement helps maintain energy levels and motivates the team to continue working
toward company goals.