Great leaders are characterized by the following:

• Vision: Developing a vision and seeing it through while navigating a constantly shifting market is critical in leadership roles. These are abilities positively required of CEOs and other executives but are also valuable traits in individual contributors.
• Communication: Possessing a vision isn't helpful if a leader can't communicate it to those on the journey. The ability to clearly explain thoughts, feelings, and mindset to key stakeholders keeps organizations aligned and on the path to achieving goals.
• Making Tough, Definitive Choices: Not every choice will be the right one, but leaders need to be capable of making tough decisions and committing to them. Even if it requires self-sacrifice, a good leader will make decisions that contribute to the greater vision.
• Humility: While confidence is necessary, it's arguably more important for a leader to possess humility. People find it easier to follow humble leaders capable of taking feedback and recognizing when they've made a wrong decision.
• Challenging the Status Quo: Leaders must identify when change is needed, make dynamic changes to the company vision, and understand the line between reasonable and dangerous risks.

Great managers are characterized by their ability to perform the following:

• Unlock Talent: While leaders set the grand vision, great managers take stock of individual employees, recognize talent, and work to unlock unique potential. Managers find the best way to integrate talented employees into teams and the organization.
• Champion Individuals: Great managers don't back down from higher-level managers and leaders. They boost and champion the work of their teams by defending ideas and ensuring employees receive credit for their contributions.
• Gain the Team's Trust: Leaders are responsible for setting a vision and making tough decisions. It's the manager's job to keep promises with employees and explain why plans might change. Great managers also take responsibility and focus on solutions rather than blaming or making excuses.
• Walk in the Team's Shoes: While managers are required to delegate tasks and track performance, there are times when they also must step in and help the team with the work. Great managers are willing to do even the most menial tasks when necessary.
• Implement the Vision: Above all, managers put processes in place to execute the company's vision. From setting clear goals to meeting one-on-one with individuals to keep tasks on track, managers ensure the delivery of quality work.