People look for four essential characteristics in leaders.

In a previous post, we discussed the importance of integrity. The second essential characteristic people look for in leaders is judgment.

The welfare of subordinates depends on the judgment of their superiors, and some people have better judgment than others.

The success or failure of organizations depends on decision-making. Napoleon destroyed France and Hitler destroyed Germany by deciding to invade Russia in the winter, after which their armies (their subordinates) were slaughtered.

Most business failures are the result of bad decisions that are compounded by an unwillingness to evaluate decisions and change direction.

To learn more about the four essential characteristics of good leaders, check out our free e-book, Leadership: You’re Doing It Wrong.