Today’s topic is the most important leadership qualities employers are looking for – and derailers to avoid. As you can imagine, every source I reviewed for this episode had a slightly different list and number of qualities, so I’ve attempted to synthesize a few sources into my list of leadership qualities for leading an organization, leading others, and leading yourself. I’ve also given you a major leadership derailer.   Leadership Skills for Leading the Organization: My ask for this section is for you to identify one leadership skill you would like to work on for the next 90 days and create a measurable goal. Create some specific action steps and calendar them in; also set aside time at the end of the 90 days to evaluate your progress. You can choose one from any of the three categories – leading the organization, leading others, or leading yourself.  1.    Decision-Making Skills & DecisivenessLeaders make informed decisions quickly – no waffling or second-guessing allowed. They are able to see the potential outcomes of various options to make the best decision in that circumstance.  2.    AdaptabilityStrong leaders are able to navigate through uncertainty in today’s rapidly changing business world. This is the flip side of decisiveness – the ability to recognize when circumstances require a mid-course correction…or when a decision made wasn’t the right one.  3.    Integrity and EthicsWe can argue that there are plenty of employers in the news every week that seem to be operating with a lack of integrity and ethics – however, I don’t think those are the companies any of you want to work for. Rather, excellent employers value leaders who are honest, loyal, have integrity, and operate in an ethical manner – all of which fosters the trust so important in business. 4.    Strategic ThinkingGreat leaders don’t spend the majority of their time putting out fires; rather, they are playing a key role in setting and communicating the organization’s mission, vision, and goals. They also have the ability to formulate and execute a strategic plan to achieve those goals.  5.    Problem-Solving SkillsSuccess in organizations requires the ability to identify and solve complex problems within a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Effective leaders are able to foster this culture and address potential or actual problems.  6.    Change ManagementEffective leaders are able to facilitate organizational change initiatives and overcome resistance to change.   Leadership Skills for Leading Others:  1.    Communication SkillsIt should come as no surprise that effective written and verbal communication is essential for leaders to convey their ideas clearly, inspire their teams, and foster collaboration. Further, a lack of strong communication skills can be seen as unprofessional – causing people to question the leader’s abilities in other areas.  2.    EmpathyIt is important for a leader to be able to relate to the emotions and perspectives of others to foster a positive work environment. Showing genuine concern and compassion for those you lead is critical in building employee morale and engagement.  3.    Motivational & Team-Building SkillsThe ability to inspire and motivate a team is critical for successful leaders. Serving as a coach and mentor not only builds the team, it builds the relationship with each employee.  Strong leaders can recognize and leverage the individual strengths of their team members, as well as foster collaboration rather than unhealthy competition.  4.    AccountabilityExceptional leaders take responsibility for their actions and hold themselves and others accountable. Part of accountability is dealing with problem employees in a decisive and fair manner; one of the biggest missteps many leaders make is showing favoritism to certain employees or having blinders on.  5.    Open-MindednessTo promote innovation and inclusivity with a team, leaders must be open to new ideas and diverse perspectives. They listen.  6