To positively influence others, what must a leader embody?

To positively influence others, a leader must embody integrity and respect. Integrity refers to the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. When a leader demonstrates integrity, they build trust with their team, which is essential for any positive influence. People are more likely to follow and be inspired by someone who stands by their values and principles, as this fosters an environment of honesty and transparency.

Respect is equally important in leadership. When leaders show respect for their team members, acknowledging their contributions and valuing their input, it creates a culture of collaboration and empowerment. Team members feel valued and are more likely to be motivated and engaged when they see that their leader respects them as individuals.

Together, integrity and respect form a solid foundation for effective leadership. They encourage open communication, reliability, and a sense of belonging among team members. In contrast, approaches based on authority, fear, charisma without genuine connection, and superficial power can create a toxic environment that stifles creativity and reduces morale.