What makes a leader memorable? These 10 standout behaviors set exceptional leaders apart—and they’re the foundation of high-impact leadership development.
Recently, Denzel Clarke of the Oakland Athletics made a gravity-defying catch that instantly made headlines. Before that moment, most fans didn’t know his name. But with one bold move, he created an unforgettable image of performance under pressure. The same can be said of Simone Biles, whose dominance at the Paris Olympics etched her name into history through breathtaking skill and fierce determination.
In leadership, those defining moments often look different—but they’re no less impactful. Great leaders leave a mark through behaviors that ignite energy, inspire teams, and influence outcomes. At Zenger Folkman, we wanted to know: What specific leadership behaviors are most likely to be noticed, remembered, and appreciated by others?
The Research Behind Exceptional Leadership
We analyzed data from 63,526 of our 360-degree leadership assessments collected over the past three years. Each participant was rated on 60 behaviors that influence overall leadership effectiveness. We compared the bottom 10% of leaders to the top 10% and discovered 10 behaviors that consistently elevate leaders into the realm of the extraordinary.
These are the behaviors that stand out—not just in performance reviews, but in the stories people tell and the impact they feel. They’re also at the heart of our leadership development training programs.
The 10 Standout Leadership Behaviors
1. Fostering a Growth Mindset Through Continuous Improvement
Exceptional leaders promote a culture of learning and experimentation. Inspired by Carol Dweck’s concept of a growth mindset, they encourage their teams to stretch beyond limitations and seek constant development. In our leadership coaching programs, this behavior is a core developmental pillar.
2. Inspiring and Energizing Others
Rather than managing through authority, these leaders inspire through energy, purpose, and emotional intelligence. They create highly engaged, resilient teams by uplifting morale—even in uncertain times.
3. Making Strong Decisions Under Pressure
Top-performing leaders exhibit clarity and confidence when decisions can’t wait. The ability to act swiftly with sound judgment is essential in executive leadership development.
4. Taking Initiative on Challenging Assignments
When leaders take ownership, especially in tough situations, they demonstrate credibility and commitment. This proactive leadership behavior inspires others to raise their game.
5. Providing Clear Direction and Purpose
It’s not enough to communicate strategy once. Great leaders provide ongoing clarity, aligning daily work to long-term goals. This behavior is vital in leadership training for managers and team leads.
6. Building Trust Through Good Judgment
Trust is earned when leaders make fair, ethical decisions and act with consistency. Our research confirms that trust-building leadership behaviors are a powerful predictor of influence and success.
7. Walking the Talk as a Role Model
Exceptional leaders model the behaviors they expect from others. They uphold high standards and act with authenticity—a must-have trait in authentic leadership development.
8. Maintaining Focus on High-Priority Goals
With constant change and growing to-do lists, the best leaders help teams distinguish what truly matters. Prioritization is a core competency in our strategic leadership workshops.
9. Achieving Results Through Cooperation
Top leaders know that collaboration beats competition. They foster trust, communication, and shared ownership—hallmarks of collaborative leadership development.
10. Inspiring People to Stretch Beyond Limits
Perhaps the most unforgettable leaders are those who helped us do something we never thought we could. They coach, challenge, and cheer—creating transformational growth in others.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Exceptional Leadership
Just like Clarke’s catch or Biles’ brilliance, exceptional leadership behaviors leave a mark. The difference? They’re practiced every day—not just in one dazzling moment.
Think of Intel’s strategic shift to microprocessors or Johnson & Johnson’s courageous recall decision. These weren’t just smart moves—they were leadership moments rooted in courage, trust, and vision.
At Zenger Folkman, we believe standout leadership isn’t about charisma or titles—it’s about behaviors that spark progress and build lasting impact. Our leadership development solutions help individuals and organizations activate those very behaviors.
The question isn’t whether you’ll get the chance to lead boldly. The question is: Will you be ready?
This article first appeared on Forbes.
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