John C. Maxwell argues that influence is a quality by which to measure every leader. He defines it as the ability to gather a group, gain their trust and respect, and mobilize them for a specific cause. Aspiring leaders might be able to gain a small group of followers, but they often have difficulty inspiring them to act toward a specific goal. The greatest leaders can compel others to follow in their steps and dedicate themselves to the leader’s vision.

Intuition is the ability to gauge intangible factors such as momentum, mood, and timing, which can affect a leader’s decision-making. Although natural leaders are born with good intuition, Maxwell believes it is a skill that any aspiring leader can learn.

Leadership ability, when lacking, is one of two things that can limit a leader’s effectiveness. To increase leadership ability, aspiring leaders must find ways to improve themselves. For example, if they are poor orators or have trouble connecting with others, they must work on these areas before they can see an increase in their influence.