Six Qualities of Successful Leaders

Lawrence Bossidy, author of "Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things Done," cites six characteristics he values in leaders:

• Knowledge of the business at hand and the company's people. "When a business issue arises, leaders have a view of their own."

• Realism. "They're realistic about what they can and can't do."

• They set clear goals--but not too many. "Simplicity equals intellect. When I see a company that has 10 goals, I say, 'you don't know what your goals are.'"

• They reward "doers." "There should be differences in salaries and bonuses. If you pay everyone the same way, the good people will leave and the average performers will stay."

• They coach and develop people. "This is a big priority. High-performance companies develop their people."

• Allow people to make a difference. "People spend a big portion of their days with you. Set the table so they can make a difference."