Niccolo Machiavelli Quotes

The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him.

Knowledge will give you power, but character respect.

John isn't qualified to be vice president. He doesn't have the intellect. He doesn't have the stature. He doesn't have the honesty. He doesn't have the character that it takes.

There may be one fault in a man that conceals a thousand qualities, or one excellence that conceals a thousand faults. The little indicates much.

The great leader attracts to himself men of kindred character, drawing them towards him as the loadstone draws iron.

I think you can tell by the people who surround me the type of person that I am, and the people I rely on in my close circle are trusted, respected, experienced.

The authority of example and considerations of character, unlike pudding, are not whipped up in an instant.

The only test of leadership is that somebody follows.

If I cannot trust someone's judgment, I cannot ask others to do so, and I would not place him at the head of my political operation.

Leader’s potential is determined by those closest to him.

I'm just as famous as my mentor... but that's still the boss don't get sent for

The more credible you are, the more confidence people place in you, thereby allowing you the privilege of influencing their lives.

No matter your title, people will not follow you if they don’t trust you.

The only thing a title can buy is a little time-either to increase your level of influence with others or to undermine it.

Leadership has less to do with position than it does with disposition.

A great man stands on God. A small man on a great man.

Leadership means that a group, large or small, is willing to entrust authority to a person who has shown judgement, wisdom, personal appeal, and proven competence.

Reputation is the road to power

Cause I bring the heater. Love me cause I'm your leader.

Leaders are leaders only as long as they have the respect and loyalty of their followers.

... what's in a person's heart and soul will not likely be changed by the ability to command a helicopter to land on the South Lawn.

When we lack integrity, we use power to control. When we lead with integrity, we use power to bless.

It was observed of Elizabeth that she was weak herself, but chose wise counsellors; to which it was replied, that to choose wise counsellors was, in a prince, the highest wisdom.

Barack Obama is a man of great dignity.

The first foundation for the creation of authority is always provided by popularity.