leadership in
modern business
BY TONY PALLADINO
There is no commonly agreed definition for leadership, but a suggested one is: the capacity to establish direction, to influence and align others towards a common goal, to motivate and commit others to action, and to encourage them to feel responsible for and committed to their contribution to the organisation. Good leadership is vital for any organisation, but leadership is not just about having a formal position, it is about inspiring and enabling others to perform well and achieve objectives. Leadership is not just about status and authority; it is more about a mindset that thinks proactively and takes responsibility. Employees at all levels can play an active part in leading themselves and their organisations. Think back over your experience of organisational life and you may well recall people who have provided a lead for others, despite having little formal authority.
Managers in the middle of an organisation face challenges in exercising leadership. They must find the right balance between leading and being led and between being a leader and a follower. They may face conflicting pressures from those they manage and those in more senior positions. In certain circumstances, they may be leading a cross-functional team with members from different parts of the organisation or a virtual team with members based in different locations.
It has been said that you will never lead anyone unless you first lead yourself. So, it's important for anyone who wants to be seen as a leader to start by reflecting on their abilities and to work at developing the skills they need to handle workplace relationships and to influence others. This may involve personal development activities and/or participation in organizational leadership development programs, where these are available.
· Make followers feel well-supported, and can be trusted and relied upon by team members.
· Have a clear vision for the future and can lead the way through change.
· Show commitment to, and generate enthusiasm for the organisation.
· Are honest and open, and spend time talking and listening to their people.
· Give employees the room and the confidence to get their job done.
LEADERSHIP
14 | BIZPRENEUR MIDDLE EAST May 2021
BY ALAA SAGAA