As the business world continues to evolve, so do the characteristics and leadership traits business leaders need in their toolbox. Across most industries, the skills and tactics that were successful for leaders ten years ago are not as effective in today’s business environment. This dynamic has made it difficult for companies to fill leadership positions, as the candidates with experience leading organizations in the past may not fit today’s leadership mold.

What are the traits your company should be looking for when hiring a leader?

Strong Understanding of Technology

The modern leader doesn’t need to come from a tech background necessarily. Although, having a strong understanding of technology has become crucial for leadership candidates. Technology has dramatically disrupted how business operates today. To effectively lead and drive business strategy, the modern leaders need to understand the technologies poised to impact their industries. The best leadership candidates will know how to adapt to new technologies and stay ahead of their competition.

Creative Strategist

Creativity and imagination can boost the performance of almost any professional, regardless of where they stand within a corporate structure. However, as a leader, having the ability to come up with new and innovative ideas that can propel the business forward, allows one to take on many challenges.

A great leader is going to be with your company for a solid chunk of time. In today’s fast-paced business climate, merely using the same strategies over and over will eventually stagnate. Sometimes the answer for growth is not to work harder, but to work differently. With an imaginative mind for strategy, a leader can create new angles to continue to grow your business.

Willing to Embrace Change

Being ready to embrace change has always been an important trait for leaders, but in today’s business environment change comes fast. When leaders don’t adapt to change quickly, their business pays the price. The flipside of that is the opportunity that comes with the rapid speed of change. If leaders recognize trends and act early enough, they can drive tremendous results.

Inspirational

A successful leader needs to maximize the performance of the people they lead. There are few better ways to get the most out of your team than inspiration. Inspirational leaders understand the importance of leading by example and the power of showing not telling. Any leader can tell their team what it takes to be successful, but the great leaders inspire through their own actions. Instead of telling employees to work hard, inspirational leaders put in the work themselves and show their team what a strong work ethic looks like.

Appetite for Learning

You’re probably noticing a trend here: the business world today is moving fast. The rapid pace of change demands a leader that is always staying attuned to what’s new and has the appetite to learn about the hottest trends, technologies, and business practices. A leader who loves to learn will always be keeping their eye out for the next great tool, resource, or strategy that will drive your business forward.

Need help finding a modern leader for your organization? Contact MJS Executive Search today.