Successful Leaders

President N. Eldon Tanner (1898–1982), a counselor in the First Presidency for many years, taught that to be a successful leader, we must follow the example of Christ. He gave nine suggestions to help us be great leaders:

1. Look to our Savior as the perfect leadership example.

2. Accept the role of teacher and servant.

3. Search the scriptures for correct principles.

4. Pray for guidance, listen, and respond.

5. Help the individual to develop self-government.

6. Hold individuals accountable for their work.

7. Express appreciation.

8. Set a personal example consistent with that which he or she teaches.

9. Listen to the voice of the President of the Church, who is a prophet of God, and follow his counsel and example. (See “Leading As the Savior Led,” New Era, June 1977, 7.)