I would like to agree with Eugene and suggest that simply understood, a
leader is someone that people follow. Though we definitely have
preferences towards the leaders we approve of, it is not really a term
that, by itself, implies value a judgement. But, as we try to impact
change and development we want to apply those values to our leaders.
Here, I offer a slightly different slant to this topic. (or perhaps others
have posted on this sub-topic which I may have missed). When discussing
Leadership in a Learning Organization context, we should focus also on
those that are to be led. Specifically, what conditions, qualities, or
qualifications do our potential leaders have? Do we know enough to make
informed decisions about following others? Basically, are they leading us
to where we want/should go? History is replete with examples of
relatively normal people who have followed "Leaders" of one sort or
another into doing atrocious things. Many times the reasons for this
"obedience" are simple submission to authority. But what about looking at
less sensational arenas for potential mis-leading - the organization. I
would suggest that organizations will have the best chance to prosper in
environments where informed employees followed leaders who had not only
the authority, but also the knowledge, vision, and insight to lead their
employees and the organization as a whole in the direction that benefits
all.
Ok, I guess that may have sounded a little preachy, but I believe that
people/employees need to develop the skills and take the responsibility to
be led. Unchecked acquiescence to authority can be a dangerous thing for
countries and companies. The difficult part is balancing this "informed
consent" with having to make decisions as a leader that are unpopular, but
truly are for the good of the organization. This is where communication
is key.
Just some thoughts,
David K. Lindbom
Carley Corporation
3203 Lawton Rd. #251
Orlando, FL 32803
dlindbom@carleycorp.com
407-894-5575 ext 262
407-895-3865 fax
--"David Lindbom" <dlindbom@carleycorp.com>
Learning-org -- Hosted by Rick Karash <rkarash@karash.com> Public Dialog on Learning Organizations -- <http://www.learning-org.com>