That question has perplexed people involved in group dynamics for a very long time. I believe people can learn to lead effectively, given the right approach and attitude. However, someone with a compelling need to dominate or control others won't likely be an effective leader, no matter how much help and guidance they receive. To lead, of course, one needs followers. And the more willing those followers are, the more effective the team becomes.

Exceptional leaders excel in five main areas. If one or more is missing or underdeveloped, effectiveness will be diminished.

CHALLENGING THE PROCESS
Leaders question everything. Why do we do things this way? How long have we been doing it this way? Is it still the best way? How could we improve upon the process to save time and expense? Nothing is sacred to an effective leader. She asks others to think for themselves and offers a continual stream of suggestions for improving the nature of work and the way work is done.

INSPIRING A SHARED VISION
Knowing where we're headed and where we are in the journey makes any effort less tedious. Leaders are clear about what the results look like - and through that vision enlists the creativity and energy of the group. Examples of powerful, inspiring visions are rampant in business today. Microsoft's Bill Gates: A computer on every desktop. General Electric's Jack Welch: We'll be number one or two in every industry in which we compete, or we'll get out. Great leaders understand the value of a compelling vision with enough stretch to challenge and inspire people.

ENABLING OTHERS TO ACT
The most effective leaders consider themselves "servant" leaders. They see their job as serving those reporting to them - ensuring they have the resources to get the job done. They make accountabilities and levels of authority crystal clear to everyone - and load people with responsibility. Work speeds along without the typical fumbles and head scratching that happens when people aren't sure what they should be focused on, and how far they can go to get the job done.

MODELING THE WAY
Albert Schweitzer probably said it best: "Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing." Everything a leaders does, every emotion she displays is magnified throughout the team. Do you dream about an enthusiastic, innovative team? Then lead with enthusiasm and reward innovation. Show me a disillusioned leader with a pessimistic attitude, and I'll show you an under-performing - if not dysfunctional - team.

ENCOURAGING THE HEART
We know that work is more than skill competence. Every day, we make a decision to bring our heart to work, or check it at the employee entrance. An effective leader understands the importance of engaging the heart, of appealing to peoples' emotions by listening to them, and finding ways to help them grow. They care about the person inside the employee's body.