In the knowledge-based economy, the human capital matters, which largely affects on the functioning of every organization. Therefore, today’s organizations report the need for adequately educated people with more and more skills and specific values. In the formation of human resources an important role plays authorities that indicate the right way, inspire to action and to new challenges. This paper presents the requirements for a modern economy, society and the role of leadership in shaping the appropriate attitudes and behaviors of employees. It also discusses the results of research presenting the opinion of the respondents concerning the importance of certain skills and socially desirable values in achieving professional success in the modern economy. Respondents also expressed their opinions with regard to the possession of the authority in economic matters.