I have the highest confidence in you, and my pride in you is great. You have greatly encouraged me; you have made me so happy in spite of all my suffering. - 2 Corinthians 7:4

When people feel 'used' they begin to drop out, but when they feel appreciated they'll follow you anywhere. The apostle Paul, one of the finest leaders of all time, wrote the verse above in a letter to the Corinthian believers. He was there biggest cheerleader. He didn't just correct, he comforted. He didn't just sharpen, he strengthened - all hallmarks of great leadership.

Good Leaders:

1. Are consistent: They set an example by walking the walk so that everyone knows that what's heard at the bottom is practiced at the top.
2. Voice their appreciation, realising that people need to know they're an important part of the team and the vision.
3. Always listen to suggestions, opinions, concerns and ideas. They don't prejudge, and they're not dismissive.

   It's a mistake to surround yourself only with people just like you. Throw off that warm comforter and replace it with a crazy quilt of different and imaginative people. Then watch the idea's erupt!-Betty Bender, Author.

4. Don't see people as statistics.

   P&L doesn't mean "profit and loss" - it means "people and love." - Mary Kay Ash, Businesswoman.

5. Explain why they like things done a specific way. It lessons mistakes, and the resentment that can stem from feeling 'ordered around'.

   You can buy a man's time and physical presence at a certain place...But you can't buy enthusiasm, initiative, loyalty and the devotion of hearts, minds and souls. You have to earn these things. - Clarence Francis, Statesman.