Leaders usually have a few key leadership traits in common. These characteristics can vary according to the leader, and some have more than others. Depending on the position or role of the leader, each characteristic can be exhibited in different ways, and leaders are stronger in some areas than others. But, make no mistake about it, leaders share a common bond, and a common skill set to accomplish their task.

One attribute is the ability to make a decision. The best leaders make hard decisions and shoulder the responsibility for its outcome. People who hold leadership positions include presidents, chief executive officers, senior managers, kings, queens. Leaders are usually the first to be awarded if endeavors are successful. For example, the head captain of a country's winning soccer team will be credited for guiding the team to victory. Leaders are also usually the first to be chastised if endeavors are unsuccessful. If a pro football team loses the championship game, the head coach could be replaced or asked to quit even though he did not even touch the football directly.

Strong leaders often exhibit leadership traits like charisma and humility. Leaders need followers to achieve personal or group goals. The leader of a country tries to stay in the good graces of his or her constituents. Leaders want the positive support of their team members and the respect of those who might disagree with them. If a leader can inspire others, goals can be easier to achieve. If his or her character doesn't remain in check, respect and influence can be lost in only a moment. Good leaders are also known for surrounding themselves with good people who are often smarter in some ways. A good leader knows he or she is only as strong as the weakest link in the group, and understands that he doesn't know it all. That requires a thread of humility.

Leadership traits can be learned and developed. Certainly people observe how other leaders operate and judge whether those methods and decisions work properly. Traits can be practiced and honed by self-study or formal education. Some companies offer a shadow program where an employee gets to follow the boss around for a day and watch how all decisions are made. Becoming a leader often involves acting like a leader before being given a formal position. Leaders often have to demonstrate their abilities or potential in some other capacity before getting a promotion. Entrepreneurs are consummate leaders. Without self-discipline, charisma, humility, and the strength to make difficult decisions, business owners will starve. Personal development as a leader is even more important that business development in many cases.

People who want to be successful frequently study the leadership traits of successful leaders. One of those traits might be the confidence to make a dangerous or important decision. Sometimes decisions like that have to be made immediately. By studying other leaders and developing leadership skills, those decisions can be made with confidence. There are some traits a leader may have that are unexpected. For example, a leader may be very unorganized and have a messy desk. That same leader may be extremely creative though and able to conceive of brilliant, lucrative ideas. Some leaders have an introverted side to their personalities and others are extremely gregarious. So, it is sometimes difficult to spot some leaders, but by studying them collectively, one can apply skills and become an effective leader as well.