A leader is steps ahead in thought, contingency spotting and planning.

A leader sees risks and outcomes better than a follower.

A leader's communication is strong, clear, succinct and decisive.

Good work = Decisiveness + Competence

A leader gets things done.

A leader also projects the confidence to others that they will get the job done.

A leader doesn't step away from conflict. A leader welcomes it as a way to identify differing ideas and opinions.

A leader goes to the root of the problem, and isn't satisfied with surface answers.