The role of a leader is a key factor for successful innovation in an organization. Followers' perception of the traits linked to their leader's innovative profile can act as a driving factor for innovation. The main reason for this article could have been to explore the qualities of an innovative leader. The result shows the behavioral qualities, traits and skills of innovative leadership. The hypothesis of leadership as a social and relational process underlines the importance of the perception of the mid-level manager in relation to the primary leader because this influences the way in which the first will behave in his role as leader. Reasoning ability is most important for innovative leaders. The list of reasoning skills of innovative leaders is also discussed in this article. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay Innovative leadership empowers others to think outside the box and then creates an environment in which new ideas can be tested. These leaders tend to be visionaries and motivate their followers by leading by example. To meet the needs of the organization, innovative leadership uses several leadership styles. Innovative leaders manage the innovation process. In some cases, this leader is responsible for generating new ideas within an organization.History of Innovative LeadershipInnovative leadership is a product of path-goal theory and leader-member exchange theory was founded by researchers Basu and Green in 1997. Path-goal theory is based on the fact that many leadership styles are necessary within an organization. For innovative leadership to work well within an organization, it needs the cooperation of followers and an effective environment. Leader-member exchange theory states that each individual should be governed by a leadership style that suits them. Examples of Innovative LeadershipBenioff is the founder and CEO of Salesforce, a cloud-based company. It was established in 1999. The company grew through a large number of acquisitions. In 2013, its turnover exceeded $3 billion. It topped Forbes' list of the world's most innovative companies in 2011, 2012 and 2013. Salesforce.com claims to have transformed the business software market and says it is now leading the transition to social enterprise .Skills of an Innovative LeaderManaging Risk: Innovative leaders performed 25% higher than their non-innovative counterparts in risk management. Innovative leaders are bold when it comes to experimenting with new approaches. However, they will take reasonable action when potentially negative consequences are expected. Innovative leaders develop plans to identify risk and minimize it. Demonstrate curiosity: Innovative leaders scored higher on curiosity. They demonstrate an underlying curiosity to learn more. These leaders will actively take the initiative to learn new information, which demonstrates their commitment and loyalty to the company's goals. They must lead effectively and stimulate new ways of thinking in other workers. Lead with Courage: Innovative leaders are proactive and lead with confidence. They transform difficult circumstances into privileged opportunities to demonstrate their decisive abilities and take responsibility for making difficult decisions. Innovative leaders are confident in engaging and maintaining.