The editors of Fast Company recently asked their readers to share their thoughts about the characteristics, qualities, and skills of successful leaders. The most compelling answers, which were featured in the June issue, revealed that the magazine's readers—any of whom are leaders themselves—have a good understanding of what it means to lead effectively.

In the words of the Fast Company Faithful, here are a few of the most important things good leaders do:

• "Fully delegate."
• "Serve."
• "Listen and act."
• "Find, groom and train his/her replacement."
• "Lead, not manage."
• "Make leaders."
• "Lead with integrity—'integrated' so that those you lead know who you are, and that you are consistent from the inside out."

Article published originally by John Maxwell's Maximum Impact Newsletter

John Maxwell has been guest speaker for the Goads, InterNET Services and BizNet Productions