Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a device that helped you to spot potential leaders?  Something that would make it easy to identify those who have got the potential to lead well in your organization.  If only…

Photo Credit: Tallapragada (Creative Commons)

Unfortunately, there isn’t a device to help you spot a potential leader.  Recently, though, I watched a leadership video by Bill Hybels who gave five tests that you can use to help identify a rising leader in your organization.

Leader Identifying Tests

• Are they an “action” person? – Leaders are action focused people.  They get things done no matter the obstacle or excuses.  Talking is fine, but action is where stuff happens.  If you want to find out if someone is a leader, test their readiness to act when faced with a problem.
• Are they a follower? - For someone to lead well, they must first be a loyal follower.  Can they follow your lead?  Do they take directions?  Many times you will find that your best leaders are your most obedient followers.
• Are they team oriented? - When a goal is accomplished do they praise teammates and celebrate the win or do they hog all the credit for themselves?  Potential leaders have a way of deflecting credit and praise to others even when they’ve put in the majority of time and effort.
• Do they believe in your mission? - Your organization is out to change the world.  You’ve got a mission and purpose that’s bigger than any single person.  Your potential leaders will understand that it’s not about them, but about what your organization is trying to do collectively.
• Will they sacrifice? – Great sacrifices will have to be made for the mission of your organization to become a reality.  Potential leaders will understand this and you will find them doing more for your organization than others.

How do you identify potential leaders?