What makes a leader? are you born to be a leader or can you learn to be a leader? What sort of leadership inspires? are there particular styles, characteristics of preferred leaders? And, is there a difference between men's and women's leadership?
Of course, to even try to answer any of the above questions with a definite correct answer is NOT POSSIBLE. So, a good start might be figuring out an acceptable definition.
Leadership
Leadership is defined as "...the ability of an individual to influence, motivate, and enable others to contribute toward the effectiveness and success of the organizations of which they are members" (Northouse et al, 2004, p. 15).
This definition is broad, allowing for leaders to emerge in various contexts. However, it does not specify the type of leadership style employed by individuals. For example,
- Transformational Leadership: Leaders inspire and motivate followers by fostering innovation, creativity, and a shared vision. They encourage personal growth and development among their team members. Examples include Steve Jobs and Mahatma Gandhi.
- Transactional Leadership: Leaders focus on exchanges between leaders and followers, emphasizing rewards for good performance and corrective actions for poor performance. They rely on clear structures and goals. Examples include Jack Welch and Vince Lombardi.
- Servant Leadership: Leaders prioritize the well-being and development of their team members. They focus on serving others rather than being served and aim to empower individuals to reach their full potential. Examples include Mother Teresa and Nelson Mandela.
- Democratic Leadership: Leaders involve team members in decision-making processes, valuing their input and collaboration. They encourage open communication and seek consensus when making decisions. Examples include Abraham Lincoln and Angela Merkel.
- Autocratic Leadership: Leaders make decisions independently with little or no input from others. They have full control over their team and expect obedience and compliance. Examples include Henry Ford and Joseph Stalin.
- Laissez-Faire Leadership: Leaders provide minimal guidance and intervention, allowing team members to have maximum freedom in decision-making and problem-solving. They trust their team members to take initiative and manage their own tasks. Examples include Google's early founders, Larry Page and Sergey Brin.
These are just a few examples, and leaders may exhibit a combination of these styles depending on the situation and context.
Women's Leadership
Women's leadership refers to the practice and expression of leadership qualities and capabilities by individuals who identify as women. It encompasses the unique perspectives, experiences, and approaches that women bring to leadership roles and positions of influence. Women's leadership involves empowering and advocating for women's voices, contributions, and advancement in various domains, including business, politics, academia, and community organizations. It often emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, empathy, and the promotion of diversity and gender equality. Women's leadership is not limited to specific leadership styles but encompasses a diverse range of approaches that reflect the strengths, skills, and values of women leaders.
Women have traditionally faced barriers to leadership positions, but in recent years, there has been a push to increase the number of women in leadership roles and to recognize and value the contributions of women leaders.
There are many organizations, initiatives, and resources dedicated to supporting and promoting women's leadership, including training and development programs, networking events, and mentorship opportunities.
Inspirational Leader
An inspirational leader is someone who understands the importance of empowerment and motivation of their employees to support them in achieving organizational goals and making a positive impact on the organizational culture. These leaders are able to communicate a persuasive vision and create a sense of purpose that unites employees. They also demonstrate passion, enthusiasm, and commitment, which can be contagious to those around them.
Inspirational leaders are caring, they are able to connect with others on an emotional level and create a positive and supportive work culture. They recognize and value the unique strengths and contributions of team members and create opportunities for them to grow and develop. They also empower team members to take ownership of their work and make decisions, which increases motivation and engagement.
Inspirational leaders lead by example and demonstrate the behaviors and values they expect from their team. They are willing to take risks, accept consequences, and embrace change, and they encourage others to do the same. Overall, an inspirational leader is someone who is able to inspire and motivate others to achieve their full potential and make a positive impact.
A Kind Leader
A leader who is Kind is both generous and caring. They care for the self and others, this sort of leader can be related to servant leadership. It is really about being friendly, generous, and considerate, without expecting anything in return. And, no, it is not about being weak, or a pushover, and it is absolutely not about ego.
“My wish for you is that you continue. Continue to be who and how you are, to astonish a mean world with your acts of kindness. Continue to allow humor to lighten the burden of your tender heart.” —Maya Angelou.
“I think probably kindness is my number one attribute in a human being. I’ll put it before any of the things like courage or bravery or generosity or anything else.” —Roald Dahl.
An important reminder.
