The manager's role is not to crack the whip and force people to win. That would be like a jockey trying to carry the horse to the finish line. Instead, the motivation to win has to come from within each employee. The manager's job is to inspire employees to reach deep within themselves and produce exceptional results. Great managers produce extraordinary results with ordinary people. This happens when managers exercise ten leadership qualities:

Commitment . The first task facing any rider is to make certain the horse wants to win. In other words, organizations succeed when everyone's passion is to excel.

Communication . A good horse and rider understand and listen to each other. This is important because often, the horse will know what's best. A wise manager listens and learns from his staff.

Attitude . How a rider feels and acts has a profound influence on just how well a horse will perform. In similar fashion, how a leader feels is how the organization will feel.

Supervision . Good riders are active in adjusting what they do to meet the circumstances. Good managers take an active role in moving with their organizations.

Innovation . Horses like to break their routines on occasion. Likewise, good managers encourage people to be curious and come up with new and better ways to perform.

Workplace . The best horses always seem to come from the best stables. Companies that have an inspiring work environment bring out the absolute best in their people.

Transitions . A good rider is sensitive when a horse is going through major transitions – foaling, raising colts, sickness, etc. Similarly, good managers recognize there will be special needs during times of business transition.

Encouragement . Horses respond well to encouragement and praise – they perform best if they feel like winners. Great employees are the same. They work hardest when they feel appreciated.

Good Decision Making Skills . When horses win races, their riders have invariably chosen the right path. Similarly, the best decisions come when both managers and employees contribute to them.

Personal Development . Winning horses train today so they can succeed in the future. Likewise, successful leaders know the seeds of tomorrow's success must be planted and cultivated today.