Eli Darland / Rare Form Limousine  / Seattle, Wash.

Eli Darland of Seattle's Rare Form Limousine, a 2012 Operator of the Year in the 1-10 vehicle category.

> A good leader knows how to ask the right questions and take accountability for his actions, while being respectful and demanding the respect of those around him.

> I look up to my father, who started a company in our basement in 1979 and took it public onto the Nasdaq stock exchange in 1990.

> Technology will optimize the chauffeured transportation industry. Specifically, the areas of scheduling and reservations will be streamlined to minimize unused vehicle time, deadheading, and reservationist resources.

>I am a big fan of the Lincoln MKT Town Car, although I still haven’t driven one.

>Just when you’re about to run out of patience, you need to dig down deeper and find another helping.

> Business is about people just as life is about people. If you don’t have a handle on people skills, everything else will take much more effort, or won’t work at all.

> Don’t waste your time trying to prove people wrong. Instead, show them how they can work together with you to create the outcomes that benefit both of you.

Michael Campbell / Grace Limousine/ Manchester, N.H.

Michael Campbell, a 2012 NLA Board Member,  of Grace Limousine in Manchester, N.H.

> It seems the best leaders are people who consistently conduct themselves in an exemplary manner, and who have earned a high level of respect based on that conduct. It’s tough to lead without respect.

> There is a need for streamlining of processes and cohesion in practice.

> I don’t think the ideal replacement [for the Town Car] exists at this point, but of the options we have, the Mercedes E-350 is at least proven for livery.

> This business can consume you. I am continually learning how to be the absolute best operator I can be while keeping in perspective the importance of being a healthy, balanced person.

Ryan Cupp / Blue Lakes Charters & Tours / Traverse City, Mich.

Ryan Cupp of Traverse City, Mich.'s Blue Lakes Charters & Tours

> It takes a good team to make the wheels go round.

> A good leader is humble, leads by example, admits mistakes and recognizes his followers’ strengths.

> Dale Carnegie is my number one inspiration and my father is a close second.

> In my eyes, Indian Trails is the best [charter and tour] company around.

> There are only two things certain in life: death and taxes.

> Always get money in advance.

Related: What Makes A Leader: Part 1

Related: What Makes A Leader: Part 2