When we talk about the qualities of a successful leader, we typically think of those leading countries or large companies. However, these individuals did not start out this way; they started earlier on, often during their school years. Tomorrow's leaders need to begin their path while still in school. A top leadership speaker provides principles encouraging and teaching our youth about the required qualities of becoming a leader today and in the future.

A top leadership speaker speaking with a group of youths understands the importance of starting the path towards future leadership begins now. They understand the requirements of successful leadership and are able to present these qualities in a manner that builds up individuals, rather than tearing them down.

Qualities of a Student Leader

Students need to understand the qualities of a good leader so that they are able to incorporate these skills as student leaders - whether it is on student council, on the sports field, in the classroom, or in the community. They, then, can take these skills and incorporate them throughout the rest of their lives.

Successful leaders demonstrate honesty and integrity. Without these qualities, others are unwilling to follow them.

Successful leaders exude confidence and inspire others. Confidence installs a belief in others that this leader is worth following. That same confidence, as long as does not grow in overconfidence, also inspires others to follow the vision. 

Commitment and passion are key skills, as you cannot convince others that your vision is possible if you are not fully committed to the idea yourself. Passion is contagious; other individuals become passionate themselves and eager to push forward.

Other qualities include accountability, creativity, empathy, and good communication. All of these qualities are essential in a truly strong leader. A top leadership speaker understands the necessity of these qualities and possesses the ability to draw students into the discussion, understanding that they too can be leaders within their own circles of influence.

Qualities of a Top Leadership Speaker

A top leadership speaker does not just speak the talk but also walks the walk. They lead by example, by demonstrating the qualities they are attempting to pass on to the others. They do not follow a set of rules, but rather demonstrate a set of qualities. These qualities include:

• Awareness - a top leadership speaker is aware of their audience, their needs, and is able to adjust according to each individual audience, especially important when dealing with youth who very quickly discern 'insincerity' in an individual and turn off quickly;
• Empathy - Without empathy, a speaker comes across as cold and uncaring. Empathy gives a top leadership speaker the ability to inspire others;
• Uniqueness - each leadership speaker brings a unique set of experiences and ideas to the table and a top leadership speaker builds on these qualities to present a memorable experience for the audience, and
• Authenticity - in order to inspire others and convince them of their ability to make changes in their own lives, a top leadership speaker must be authentic; they must be themselves and be truthful.

Brad Hurtig, One Such Speaker

Losing both hands in a workplace accident during his sophomore year of high school and overcoming to become a top defensive football player during his senior year gives Brad Hurtig a unique perspective. This uniqueness inspires others, providing a catalyst for opportunities for open discussion, teambuilding, and 'out-of-the-box' problem-solving. For more information, contact Brad today.