Leadership starts at the top.

Twenty years ago, I worked for an exceptional senior leader. To this day, I still consider him to be the most influential leader for me personally. How is it, that the impact of one person’s leadership is still present some two decades later?

Character. It was character that set him apart from others. He demonstrated character through both behaviour and action. He was not only an example of an exceptional leader, but he was also the standard that those who came after him, were measured against.

Through his example, I learned that before one can lead others, they must first ensure that their own house is in order. That influence can continue to shape others well into the future.

Good character is the foundation of great leadership. It provides the courage to do what is right regardless of the circumstances or the consequences. Leaders of character inspire trust in their people because their words and their example align. This is how trust-based relationships are formed.

The example a leader sets is as important as the words they speak. Leaders of character influence and inspire others, through example.