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A definition of Leadership

A Definition of Leadership

Great leaders live the dream, but what does ‘great leadership’ look like?

Great leadership:
  • Is authentic in that it has honesty and integrity. “If you are ruthless and selfish, you won’t do well…” (Sir Terry Leahy).
  • Is creative; being both imaginative and inspirational.
  • Is innovative when possible and cautious when necessary.
  • Is passionate and driven (not merely committed).
  • Provides vision, rationale, context, purpose and clarity for stakeholders who live in a complex world which they may not fully understand.
  • Is both empathetic and ethical, and understands the impact it has on the wider social, political and economic world.
  • “Is positive, recognizing that great leadership is not a solitary occupation, but a team sport” (David Pearson ~ ex-head of Sony UK).
  • Challenges the status quo and changes the world in which we live in a dynamic and meaningful way because remaining stationary is not a viable option. That way you eventually lose.
  • Recognizes good practice, cultures and behaviours and encourages those that work.
  • A great leader does not ‘change for change’s sake’.
  • Confronts people who ‘bottle it’ (Terry Morgan, Chairman of Crossrail).

“It is important to note that all of the above are aspirational, but does any leader encapsulate all of these virtues?

Probably not, but great leaders tend to hit the majority, making the most of what they have got.

If a leader can achieve most of them, it doesn’t matter who or what they are, because great leaders come in all shapes and sizes and in all occupations and at all levels.”

Bedfordshire University

Research» Business and Management Research Institute» Research centres» Centre for Leadership Innovation (CLI)» News» A definition of Leadership

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