Leaders are not born, leaders are made and they are made by effort. A leader needs to be trusted and be known to live their life with honesty and integrity. A good leader True authority is born from respect for the good character and trustworthiness of the person who leads. The Characteristics of a Good Leader. Enthusiastic about work. People will respond more openly to a person of passion and dedication. Leaders need to be able to be a source of inspiration, and be a motivator towards the required action or cause. Although the responsibilities and roles of a leader may be different, the leader needs to be seen to be part of the team working towards the goal.