What is one key characteristic of an effective leader?

One key characteristic of an effective leader is integrity. Integrity forms the foundation of trust and honesty in leadership; it encompasses being ethical, transparent, and consistent in actions and decisions. When a leader demonstrates integrity, it fosters a positive team environment, encourages open communication, and motivates subordinates to align with organizational values. Employees are more likely to respect and follow a leader who upholds strong moral principles, creating a culture of accountability and responsibility within the team.

In contrast, while technical expertise, the ability to delegate tasks, and complex decision-making skills may contribute to a leader's effectiveness, they do not hold the same fundamental importance as integrity. Without integrity, a leader’s decisions or delegation may be questioned, leading to a lack of trust and respect among team members. Therefore, integrity stands out as an essential attribute that underpins the effectiveness of any leader.