Leadership Development Paper

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Equally as important to a leaders ethics are their principles and values. I find a leader who demonstrates these qualities as being someone who can reach their goals in a sound, sustainable way. My feelings are this type of leader is accountable and shows integrity at the most trying times. I witness this first hand on a daily basis as I am in the wealth management business. Many times our organization is corporate trustee on trusts we manage and our duty is to act in the best interest of the trustee or beneficiary. We find ourselves in situations where a client will request funds for a trip or to buy an expensive car. However, if we do not feel the funds are being used in a way that the governing document allows, then it is our responsibility to tell the client no. Informing a client that we cannot process their request is always a tough discussion to have, but under the law we are required to make decisions such as this. As I am well aware the industry I work in does not have the best track record when it comes to principles and values, I do believe it is important to remember there are a large percentage of the industries leaders who adhere to the eight principle categories.

To conclude, it can be determined that identifying characteristics and qualities of a good leader can be quite complex. What I discovered about myself through my studies and assessments is if I continue to communicate openly and honestly, respect others ideas, yet use my emotional intelligence to gain the trust of my followers, I will feel as if I am leading others as I would like to be led. I must admit, I was pleased to understand many of my strengths when it comes to leadership. However, I was more excited to learn about where there is room for improvement. I believe by strengthening my weaknesses through the processes I put into place, I can focus on what lies ahead and how to get the most out of my followers instead of worrying about ethical wrongdoings or an ineffective culture.