James C. Collins Leader Quotations

The x factor of a great leader is humility combined with will.

If you have a charismatic cause you don't need to be a charismatic leader.

Throw leaders into an extreme environment, and it will separate the stark differences between greatness and mediocrity.

Level 5 leaders are a study in duality: modest and willful, humble and fearless.

The difference between a good leader and a great leader is humility.

Leaders who led their organizations quietly and humbly, were much more effective than flashy, charismatic high profile leaders.

The most effective leaders of companies in transition are the quiet, unassuming people whose inner wiring is such that the worst circumstances bring out their best. They're unflappable, they're ready to die if they have to. But you can trust that, when bad things are happening, they will become clearheaded and focused.

Recruit entrepreneurial leaders and give them freedom to determine the best path to achieving their objectives. On the other hand, individuals must commit fully to the system you use and be held rigorously accountable for their objectives. You give them freedom, but freedom within a framework.

The greatest leaders build organizations that, in the end, don't need them.