These qualities make a good leader
Erik Wirz interviewed by Blick by Sarah Riberzani von: Sarah Riberzani
Erik Wirz interviewed by Blick on what makes a good leader.
A manager must have many qualities to keep his employees happy. Headhunter Erik Wirz knows which qualities are in demand.
Erik Wirz knows the essential qualities that a leader should have.
Good leaders are highly sought after because their actions can influence the success of a company. They are closely scrutinised during the application, interview and assessment process. According to top headhunter Erik Wirz (54) of Wirz & Partners in Zug, Switzerland, technical skills are the most important. But soft skills are just as important. "The combination of intelligence quotient (IQ) with a strong emotional intelligence quotient (EQ) is what is in demand today," says the expert.
Technical tasks can be solved by technical experts - it is much more complex to solve challenges on a human level. And these challenges are more prevalent than ever, after two years of remote working and many employees questioning themselves and the meaning of their jobs.
Tackling the hot potato
Communication is key, says Wirz. Something is bothering someone, no one speaks up, everyone passes the problem on? A leader has to pick up the "hot potato" and address it openly. Wirz is confident: "Employees will thank the boss - with confidence!"
Build a fan base
According to the headhunter, there are many technical specialists out there, but not everyone is suited to being a manager. "A manager doesn't necessarily have to be as good at what they do as their staff - as long as they have the ability to motivate the team and keep them in the company," explains Wirz. Those who can inspire others and get them on board know how to use their EQ effectively.
Listen attentively
Wirz says it is important to show genuine interest and not just move on to the agenda after asking "How are you?". "Employees can tell when someone is really listening and interested in the other person's emotional state. The era of selfish power players in the boardroom is over," warns the headhunter.
Not just a code of conduct on the wall
The code of conduct is a set of important rules of behaviour for employees. According to Wirz, this code of conduct should not only be displayed on the wall, but should also be lived by. "Ethical and moral principles are only as good as the behaviour of your boss during the exit interview. If it is fair and amicable, you will have gained a potential long-term ambassador for the company," he says.
Celebrate!
Giving feedback, sharing ideas and staying in regular contact are important. But maintaining team spirit is also important. "It doesn't have to be an extravagant party. But more than the little Easter package that HR sends home," says Wirz. Sharing a success story at a team meeting, treating everyone to a cake or having lunch together again - these moments are more important than a pay rise, says Wirz.
