Which of the following is a characteristic of leadership?

A significant characteristic of leadership is empowering others. This entails enabling team members to take initiative, make decisions, and contribute effectively to the group's goals. A good leader fosters an environment where individuals feel confident in their capabilities and are motivated to perform at their best. By empowering others, a leader not only enhances team performance but also encourages personal growth and development among team members. This trait is critical because effective leadership is fundamentally about inspiring and guiding others, rather than simply managing tasks or maintaining control.

In contrast, working alone undermines the collaborative spirit that is essential in leadership roles, as leadership is inherently about working with others to achieve common objectives. Avoiding conflicts can be detrimental in a leadership context; effective leaders typically address and resolve conflicts constructively to foster team cohesion and strength. Maintaining the status quo may indicate a resistance to change and innovation, which can hinder progress and adaptation in dynamic environments. Thus, empowering others stands out as a core quality of effective leadership, promoting a healthy, dynamic team culture.