Human resource consultancy Hewitt Associates has just released its Top 25 Global Companies for Leaders 2009. Not surprisingly, some of the world’s largest and oldest companies are on the list – General Electric, Deere & Company, Cargill, Procter & Gamble and General Mill are just a few of the names that both your grandparents and even great grandparents grew up with. In explaining their leadership strategy, one common theme emerges. In good times and bad, these companies continue to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in developing leaders.
These leader builders are some of the largest employees in the world. From the very first interview, these smart companies are screening for leadership potential. How would you measure up among other potential leaders? Are you a manager or a leader? First, let’s look at how they differ. Managers are technicians and operational experts; their job is to get things done. Leaders are motivators and visionaries.
There are a number of common traits that human resource experts look for in leaders. A leader is committed to continuously learning and likes to take on challenges. Leader is a team player and good communicator. Importantly, a leader is not only guided by vision but also a moral compass that is pointed in the right direction. Leader is a person of integrity.
In your next interview, sell up the traits of a leader. The world’s most successful and sustainable companies invest in those who are born to lead.