How To: Become a Good Leader feat. Professor John Engel
As we go through life, being able to be a good and effective leader is important for any person to know. In this article, a professor at USCA discusses and gives tips on how to accomplish this goal.
John Engel, a Senior Instructor and Director of Career Readiness at Aiken, stated there are three key components that make a person a good leader: Character, Competence and Caring.
Let’s start off with character. The Merrian-Webster Dictionary defines character as one of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an individual. Engel believes that this is the most important component to have as a leader.
“If you say that you are going to do something, then you should do it,” he said. “If you are going to have people under you, and they see that you do what you say and that you will be there for them, they would do just about anything that you ask.”
Next is competence. To have competence is the quality or state of having sufficient knowledge, judgment, skill, or strength. Engel stated that if you don’t know how to do something, then you are never going to be able to get people to follow you.
A great way to become competent is to do research for the leadership you are wanting. For example, if you are running for SGA President, look over the job requirements for the position.
The last component of a good leader is caring. Caring is defined as feeling or showing concern for or kindness to others. Engel believes that even though caring takes away from the business side, it allows you to build a relationship with your employees and/or coworkers.
An example of being a caring leader is noticing when one of your employees looks upset or stressed, and going over to talk to them to make sure that they are ok and if there is anything you can do for them.
Now knowing the three key components, all of you know what it takes to become a great leader.
“Anyone can learn how to be a leader,” Engel said. “It just takes time, practice and energy.”
