07/19/2025
Traits of a Great Leader (manager)
by Tiffany Terroux, owner Ralston Valley Canine
The honor of being a great leader is earned; one is never simply entitled to it. The following are drawn from personal education in human resources, communications, organizational dynamics, and independent corporate management training; and over 30 years’ experience working as a leader and team member within all sizes of functional AND dysfunctional groups.
>Want a dedicated and hard-working team? Commitment and a strong work ethic are infectious!
>Be willing to do, AND DO what you ask others to do
>Show gratitude and appreciation
>No favoritism. Doesn't have buddies or friends reporting to them and understands that their paramount responsibility is to the organization as a whole
>Makes time to think about the organization (or job) as a whole, proactively problem solve through communication with other leaders in the organization; reflecting on what’s working and what’s not (and what to do about it)
>A leader’s behavior is setting an example and tone for others to follow
>Demonstrates courage by standing up for what’s right, stepping up to address an issue in the moment, even when it’s difficult or scary.
>Is reliable, trustworthy, and safe – keeps their word, follows through
>Demonstrates consistently that SAFETY and QUALITY CARE is a top priority
>Shows authentic empathy for employees, clients, and animals – ability to see the other side, adjust to meet halfway to encourage and inspire cooperation; be fair in judgment of others.
>Is a steady personality, authentic to self, and predictable.
Regulates their moods. Employees, customers, and dogs are affected by your mood – your mood should fit the moment and not the other way around. Avoid emotional outbursts including harsh judgements and avoidance behaviors as it may cause others to see you as unpredictable and untrustworthy.
>Uses professional language; communication excellence
>Integrity...doing the right thing when it's hard
>Encourages team members to step forward and report anything they feel isn't right, thank and respect their courage and protect them from any retribution.
>Flexibility - best laid plans can fail, how do you respond, fairly?
>Demonstrates and inspires a passion for learning for themselves and for others.
>Can assign a task and step back. A great leader remains a resource for employees to ask questions and receive coaching without micromanaging or becoming overly involved. Staff need autonomy and to feel good about their work.
>Accountability – the buck starts and stops with leaders. Good leaders admit when they are wrong and hold themselves AND their team members accountable for their actions and decisions.
>Resilience; learn from your mistakes and be better next time!
>Understands and promotes to the team, “WE SUCCEED, AND FAIL, TOGETHER."
