Set a vision
Glaringly obvious was Abbott's inability to present and articulate a clear vision for Australia. He isn't the sole culprit: pinpointing exactly what we're striving towards as a nation and how we are going to get there has been anyone's guess for some time now.
When considering the importance of vision and setting the direction towards it, I am reminded of John F. Kennedy's famous speech in which he announced, "We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard."
This bold commitment to be the first nation to land man on the moon inspired a strong collective belief during the socially turbulent 1960s. Kennedy's vision brought people together; they genuinely wanted to meet this vision. So in spite of the issues the US faces, people still reflect on that history with a pride and judge their current performance against it. To have and execute a vision can be remembered for generations.
Whether you're a corporate, political or community leader, it is impossible to mobilise people without articulating in simple terms the direction to the intended destination.
Avoid false expectations
Early in his tenure, Tony Abbott promised to undertake regular performance reviews for ministers. With the multitude of blunders and distractions his various ministers caused, it's little wonder this commitment never saw the light.
If you're going to make a commitment to the people you're responsible for, ensure you back it with action. To not do so is a surefire way of stirring skepticism and frustration.Surround yourself wisely
Naturally you're required to delegate as a leader -- in essence, entrust your reputation in the hands of others.
Abbott had some solid performers, but unfortunately the bad overshadowed the good. We witnessed a series of missteps by certain colleagues that not only dented Abbott's reputation but also caused major distractions. This limited his capacity to focus on the issues of real national interest as he was forever on the back foot, mopping up the mess.
Finding people you can rely on isn't easy, and everyone makes mistakes from time to time, but never underestimate how important it is to get the right skills and personality mix in your team. Your team's decisions and behaviour are a reflection of you, no question.
Collaborative decision-making
Abbott was criticised for making significant decisions that lacked requisite consultation with relevant stakeholders. This compounded the sense of disconnect between him and the Australian public and members of his own party.
Vital in successful leadership is instilling your team and stakeholders with a sense of empowerment. They need to know their perspectives have been listened to and considered before a course is set. After consulting the necessary parties, a leader must then clearly explain why they've reached their judgment before implementing the direction.
Your decision won't always be popular, but at least you've afforded the necessary platform for people to be heard.
Speak human
Jargon, slogans, the "clever" news-grab created with the intent of generating a headline rather than a message of substance has exercised control over too many leaders.
Here's an idea, why not try speaking like a real human being? I'm certain this would aid any leader's mission to engage and build a genuine connection with their community. I am struck by an equal measure of confusion and frustration when a leader steps out from behind the rhetoric only in time to deliver their farewell speech. I'm left wondering where this sincere, authentic person was hiding the whole time?
No one will ever respond or relate to you as a leader if you're unable to consistently connect through real and simple language. Speak human.
Only time will tell whether Australia's new Prime Minister will employ the essential leadership traits to set himself above his recent predecessors. Hopefully leaders will be able to learn from what Malcolm Turnbull did right.
•Alex Malley is the chief executive of CPA Australia and a regular business commentator in Australia.