Credible Leadership: Characteristics and Effects on Leader Performance

Current perspectives on leadership view it as an influential force, leading to the emergence of innovative approaches such as authentic, spiritual, adaptive, and servant leadership. There is a strong relationship between the leader and the followers, as they collaborate to achieve shared objectives. The aim of this study was to identify the traits that establish leaders as credible and to understand the impact of leadership credibility on a leader's performance. Data was gathered through literature reviews and telephone interviews with key informants. From the responses, major themes were identified, and the data was categorized based on different concepts. The interviewees characterized credible leaders as those who demonstrate integrity, ethics, honesty, selflessness, servant leadership, motivation, inspiration, thoughtfulness, exemplary behavior, empowerment of their followers, and the fostering of team spirit. The study concluded that credible leaders engage in ethical behavior and humility, invest in their own growth and that of others, possess effective communication skills, and are attentive listeners.