Checklist: The Traits of a Good Financial Leader
What does it take to be known as a good financial leader? Is it finding the right business systems for your company? Or is it being a go-getter, a decision-maker, and a resource-finder for your teams?
It’s this and more. The characteristics and traits of a good financial leader are like those of any other leader. Many of the traits of a good financial leader are the traits of a good person in general, and of a strong leader in any role.
What It Takes to Lead – 6 Characteristics of a Good Leader
- Ethical foundation: All leaders must have a solid ethical foundation. Financial leaders need a strong ethical framework from which to base their decisions. Accountants and CFOs must be rigorously and scrupulously honest, providing the clearest picture they can of the businesses’ situation and finances so managers can make decisions. Without the foundation of honesty, business leaders will make decisions based on incorrect assumptions and facts.
- Work-life balance: All work and no play does indeed make Jack or Jill dull. Good leaders understand that while hard work is valuable, family relationships and friendships, health and wellness, and a spiritual foundation are all equally important. Good leaders prioritize around their families, engage in physical exercises and other pursuits to cultivate wellness, and ensure their spiritual lives aren’t neglected. Work-life balance is an integral part of a whole person and one of the hallmarks of a mature leader.
- Leading by example: Good leaders do not make demands or act as dictators. Instead, they lead by example. They exhibit the personal characteristics and work routines that they desire others in the company to follow.
- Peer and subordinate relationships: Leaders also cultivate good working relationships with both peers and subordinates. They get on equally as well with the CEO and the cleaning crew. They know the importance of teamwork and that the company is made up of teams working harmoniously, not one superstar or leader who gets all the glory.
- Cross-functional teams: Strong leaders are equally well-versed in other jobs, as well as their own. They can step into a task if needed. They understand the work of others and demonstrate respect for others’ competencies.
- Clear communications: One of the most notable attributes of a strong leader is their ability to clearly communicate goals, objectives, and related information. They not only communicate as necessary but communicate proactively, offering information that’s helpful to others working on projects. They don’t guard or hold information to themselves.
How did you stack up? Do you have the traits or characteristics of a good financial leader?
If you do, congratulations. If you don’t, consider finding a mentor to help you build on your strengths and overcome your weaknesses. Mentors may be found among your peer groups, professional organizations, or other areas that put you into contact with leaders. You don’t necessarily have to find a financial mentor either; you can find any leader who has the skills you seek to cultivate to mentor you.
Business Systems from IWI Consulting Group
Leaders often find themselves seeking software resources to help grow their companies. If that’s the case, consider Sage Software. IWI Consulting Group offers a full range of business systems, tools and resources to help you with your accounting, finance, and other business needs. Please visit IWI Consulting Group or call 1-866-916-3851