Smart v. Intelligent: You don't have to be an 'A' student to be a good leader

Just because you’re not an “A” student doesn’t mean you can’t be an effective leader. Academically, I was middle of the road, but knowing that allowed me to focus on developing skills that I could be good at to ultimately help me be successful as a CEO.

It used to be when someone would say “that person is the smartest person in the room,” smart academically came to mind. I thought of doctors, lawyers and engineers, but rarely a salesman like myself.

What got me thinking about this subject was a recent article in the St. Cloud Times that discussed the difference between “intelligent” and “smart.”  It intrigued me because it gave credibility beyond academics and textbooks to what smart really means. It confirmed that you can be a very average student, but still become a very strong leader.

We know the qualities of intelligence – and can measure them. So, here are a few attributes that I think smart leaders have:

  1. Solid Communication Skills: They can articulate their messages in a clean, concise manner, whether it’s verbally or written. They also can help others see the bigger picture and focus on what’s important.

  2. Quick-Study: They may not have the highest IQ, but they have fast processors. In short order, they can research, understand and be able to articulate information on a new topic.

  3. Social Presence: This does not necessarily mean being the life of the party, but being socially-active is a good attribute. Whether it’s through a board membership, attending charitable events, or coaching your kid’s little league team, your presence in the community will be noticed.

  4. Confidence: No matter your role or the business you are in, self-confidence is easily recognized. It's evident through body language and speech. This often goes hand-in-hand with being a good communicator and being comfortable in social settings.

  5. Ambition: I don’t think you can teach this. Some people are just more driven than others.

  6. Adaptable:  Smart leaders keep their saws sharp and stay contemporary.

If you consider yourself both intelligent and smart, congratulations – you’re in the minority. However, if you don’t consider yourself to be a rocket scientist, you can still leverage your smarts to be a great leader. So, next time perhaps you will be the smartest person in the room.

Topics: Leadership, Intelligent