Leadership is based on inspiration, not domination; on cooperation; not intimidation

- William Arthur Wood

hat is a leader? Let's tackle that question by first determining what a leader is not. A leader is not necessarily the guy (or gal) in the corner office with floor-to-ceiling windows and the army of gatekeepers. Trappings and fancy title do not a leader make.

What about the person with the highest commission checks or largest number of closed sales? Does top performance cement this person's role as shepherd of the flock? Nope.

A leader could be the most experienced team member - or not. Years of toil don't necessarily correlate to leadership ability.

So, who is a leader?

A leader can be someone far from the top of the corporate hierarchy, a recent hire or even a less-than-stellar performer. In truth, anyone - high or low, young or old - who is trusted, respected and followed is a leader. That means, whatever your current position, you have the potential to light a fire under your colleagues.

If you are leadership-averse, consider this: With developments in technology, globalization and ever-increasing expectations on the part of clients, there is scant room for those who long for a low profile in a safe, bureaucratic corner.

Everyone is now on the front lines; your job could be at stake tomorrow. Leadership capability must now be part of every professional's skill set. The good news is you can acquire the requisite skills. To help you become a leader (or a better one) here are some components of effective leadership:

Motivation

Leaders are motivated and do a good job of motivating others. When morale dips, people look to them for inspiration. Leaders find inventive ways to keep the mood elevated and the goals in focus.

Empathy

Leaders are empathetic, knowing or being able to imagine what it is like to stand in other people's shoes. Leaders understand colleagues' needs and challenges and help them achieve their highest potential.

Communication

Leaders are effective communicators. They know what they want to say, and they convey their messages clearly and consistently. They make sure they are understood by all parties to avoid future problems.

Honesty

Leaders are honest with themselves, their co-workers and clients. They ask for help when they need it and admit their mistakes. They are strong enough to disclose their missteps to others.

Approachability

Leaders are easy to approach. They welcome input from all quarters. Their doors are open to anyone needing their support or wishing to share ideas.

Proximity

Leaders are available and accessible. Even if they are not physically present, they are never more than a phone call or e-mail away.

Involvement

Leaders actively participate. They do not watch from afar or wait for others to falter before offering guidance. They are hands-on and work to prevent or correct problems before they become larger issues.

Commitment

Leaders are committed to their projects and beliefs. They stick it out when the going gets tough. When profits dip, sales decrease or technology fails, leaders find solutions and remain in the trenches to help get things done.

Decisiveness

Leaders are decisive and sincere. They back up their words with actions. Anyone can talk a good game, but it is your actions that prove who and what you are.

Respect

Leaders are admired by their followers and peers. They work to be worthy of that admiration and maintain the respect they have earned.

Anyone can be a leader, regardless of tenure with an organization or title on a nameplate. Let nothing stand in your way. Develop leadership qualities in yourself. You too can lead the way.