Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Definition of Leadership

Stephen Covey defines leadership in The 8th Habit as "communicating to people their worth and potential so clearly that they come to see it in themselves." What is your definition of leadership?

48 comments:

LindasWorkshops.com said...

My definition of leadership is someone who cares so deeply about those who are "following," that it is not obvious who is doing the "leading" in the traditional sense of the word. A leader must listen and engage those who follow him/her. The team needs to feel that they are part of the organization, not just as a number, but valued for their contributions. A leader also ADMITS mistakes, which is uncommon these days. If I had to sum it up in two words, it would be "valuing others." If I could add one more, "integrity" also comes to mind - another characteristic that is not as prevalent as most of us would like. Linda Bruno

Sites by Jerry said...

Leadership is how one influences others.
There are poor leaders and then there are great leaders. The difference between the two types is how they positively influence others or how they dictate the actions of others. A good leader can get the desired results from others without having to use a heavy handed approach, but rather by using his/her influence to motivate their followers.

Anonymous said...

I think leadership is the ability to accomplish goals by motivating people to be comitted to excellence, personally and professionally. A leader always sets the example, therefore winning the trust and respect of their followers. Each and every person has a gift. A leader takes the time to find that in each person, then engages them to their full potential.

Anonymous said...

To me leadership means valuing those you are leading and making them part of the process rather than just dictating tasks. A leader seeks the opinions of those around him/her. A good leader also finds ways to help others learn and grow and truly cares that subordinates reach the next level professionally.

Nickie said...

Leadership describes someone who has knowledge and courage to make others want to follow. Leaders listens to others and try to help at all cost. Leaders are usually the ones that take the first step at making a difference to pave the way for others to come. Leaders usualy create other leaders with their wisdom.

Mike Andrewes said...

Leadership is having the experience and the people skills to be able to not only do a great job yourself, but also make everyone else give 100% every single day. If people have a positive opinion of their leader, they will strive to be as productive as possible. When people do not think they have an effective leader, they tend to not follow as much, and as dedicated, as compared to someone who is viewed as effective. A good leader is someone who is truthful and supporting everyday.

Mike Andrewes

Garry Cassady said...

I see leadership as the ability to get people to the place where they not only want to do their jobs but are passionate about doing them.
The term manager brings to mind profit/loss statements, a tough-minded boss and an all-business type of person. I try to be the kind of person that inspires, sets examples and makes people want to be involved with me. Leadership is about inspiring people to be the best they can. A leader leads a horse to water and the horses drink the stream dry.
-Garry Cassady

Darneesha Coleman-Figgs said...

I chose to comment on this blog this week because I am currently constructing a PowerPoint presentation on leadership and leadership styles. My definition of leadership is the ability to rally or conjure the support of others for a common goal. A true leader has the ability to lead others by making good sound decisions that are based on facts. Leaders are able to give and receive constructive criticism to and from their subordinates. Lastly, a true leader strives to be a servant leader, someone who is humble and who strives to meet the needs of their colleagues.

Leslie Oches said...

I just read an article about what gives the person a right to lead. Many times it is being elected into a position or being put into a position just because that is the job progression. To me leading is about building a positive connection with something or someone that people believe it. Once that connection is built, being a trustworthy person and helping those people achieve excellence. Leading is not about yourself but about those that believe in you. It takes dedication and hard work but by digging in and working with people, the leading will come easily.

Unknown said...

I like how Stephen Covey defined leadership; "communicating to people their worth and potential so clearly that they come to see it in themselves." I would add to that by saying, and to earn the respect of others from leading by example; not to make you look good but the individuals as a whole. Leadership to me is looking out for the good of individuals as a whole unit, group, or company. A good leader sets the standard and earns the respect of others by his or her actions. It's hard to be led by a hypocrite.

Jason Yocum said...

Leadership is defined as leading by exapmle. Tony Dungy stated "The best compliment to me as a coach is to have my team practice at the same level when I am away from the team." This takes alot of trust and respect for the head coach. Leadership can take on many forms but to me it involves taking charge ina given situation and making sure the task is done accurately and to satisfaction of the organization.

:: steven barth :: said...

I subscribe to John Maxwell’s argument that leadership is influence. If you are not able to influence someone, you do not have leadership. Maxwell said in his book, Equipping 101, “every leader has these two characteristics: (1) (s)he is going somewhere and; (2) (s)he is able to persuade other to go with him.” If a “leader” is going somewhere, but is unable to persuade others to do the same, (s)he is of little value to the group as a whole. Dwight Eisenhower said concerning leadership, “leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” Measuring how much influence someone has is the only real way to measure their leadership ability. But the problem is finding an effective way to measure influence!

Gator42 said...

Jeremy Starcher:

There are so many good definitions for leadership. Some touch on communication, some on influence but all of the good ones center around serving others. This is my definition of a leader: one who serves others for others sake and not their own. I have found that in all cases where a person serves others with a pure motivation, they become true leaders. Whether it is the mom who faithfully serves her family, the teenager who cheerfully serves in the community or the retired couple who pour their lives into an adopted child. Leadership does not solely exist in the business or political world. In fact, it better represented outside these human constructs in the hearts of God's people.

Jonathan said...

To me, leadership is helping others reach their full potential while reaching their goals, without making those you lead feel inconsequential or less worthy in any way. Treat others the way we are taught as Christians, with compassion, love, and understanding. A leader should provide the example for others to follow.

Anonymous said...

I believe that leadership is being so passionate about what you are doing that others want to sign on to share your vision. In doing this you also have to really care about the people you are leading--their well being, happiness and progress-- because without it all efforts are ultimately doomed. A strong leader leads by example, strives to inspire everyone to do their best and is quick to notice the success of others. --Tammie DeGrella

Anonymous said...

Being a leader means that you raise up those that follow you. Any successful manager will tell you that if you want to stay a leader you have to improve those around you. Those that you lead are a reflection of the leader. It means taking care of your people and any of their problems. Its about motivating and influencing others to come together to accomplish a set goal.

SCOTT STOUT

Sheri D. said...

Good leadership is motivating your team and leading them in the right direction. Communication is a key element in this. In order to lead them in the right direction, you need to set the appropriate goals. In order for the goals to be achieved, you need to motivate them to be self-confident and to believe in their own abilities. A good leader also removes roadblocks so that their team has the opportunity to succeed.

Jay Guenther said...

This is a great definition. I would also add the definition of servant leadership. Some biblical prophets and also Jesus were great examples of servant leaders.
"Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves." Luke 22:26-27.

amevar said...

My definition of leadership (in the workplace) is the ability to lead someone to better themselves and the business. Someone who is honest, effective, and empathetic.

Michael Hofmeister said...

You know you have leadership skills when people come up to you with questions because they have confidence in your answers and they understand you will be honest with them. Unfortunately sometimes people think they have great leadership skills because of the position they hold. I feel one of the best ways to decide if you are capable of leading someone is by asking your coworkers, friends and family. You need to have people that will give you an honest opinion about yourself. You may think you are capable of leading but it's nice to have proof.

Lori Ellis said...

My definition of leadership is definitely not something that coincides with the position that one holds. In fact, I know many managers who are not good leaders. In my opinion, being a leader is multifaceted. There is an element of being a good leader that comes with one's personality; it is just natural. I think being a leader also derives from the knowledge that one holds in a certain area and the capability to share that knowledge. But, I also think that being a good leader is setting a good example in all aspects of your life; not just in a work environment!

Rhonda said...

To me, the definition of leadership is the ability to provide positive influence over people in a way that they achieve goals and has positive results. A leader should be like a coach. You want people to feel that they are a part of a team. A leader must be a good listener. People want to feel that they are heard and that their opinion matters. A good leader must be a person of integrity and honesty. If a team member does not trust the leader, the morale will be significantly impacted. An organization that has poor leadership will not likely survive in these economic times

L. said...

To me, a leader is someone who exhibits the willingness to serve. Although leaders often must delegate tasks to others, I believe they should not expect anyone to do anything that they would not be willing to do themselves if it was in the best interest of the team. Leaders must care about the people who follow them and be willing to direct them both in times where praise and discipline are necessary. A leader must also have a vision worth following and be able to convince others to catch that vision.
Lisa

Sheri said...

I think of it as honorable to be in the Leadership field. Leadership, to me, is having the talent to bring a group of people to one common goal.

ronda smith said...

My definition of leadership is to be able to help people better themselves in a positive manner. You should be experienced and have the willingness to serve others. You should be honest and sincere in the way you lead. A leader should also be a coach and to able be coachable. Because you can never learn too much! Leaders "lead",not follow!

Anonymous said...

I think that a good leader is defined by his or her actions. I feel that it can make a big difference when a leader leads by example and not just telling people what to do. A good leader can lead in a new direction without people objecting because of the respect gained by a leader who leads by example. I also think that most great leaders are born with a capacity to lead.
Brian Long

Anonymous said...

I believe that a true leader is led by what he says and it is proved it by their example. By experience a leader must maintain and demonstrate a type of leadership where people can have confidence in him or her. I also think their actions of a leader identify what type of person he or she is. The character traits of a leader is a big deal in today's world, people seems to look for a hope in which a true leader would provide some of the qualities in type of areas that needed the most.

I do believe some people are born into it naturally or it is a gift for them to lead, and others are getting it through theory and work related experience. A true leader's performance reflects his or her character because this are the attributes that builds up a leader in any kind of society, business, or regions they represent. In addition, discern wisdom, fairness and honest governance are the type of shining model a good active leader usually demonstrate.

(George Gidisa)

G.Gidisa said...

I believe that a true leader is led by what he says and it is proved it by their example. By experience a leader must maintain and demonstrate a type of leadership where people can have confidence in him or her. I also think their actions of a leader identify what type of person he or she is. The character traits of a leader is a big deal in today's world, people seems to look for a hope in which a true leader would provide some of the qualities in type of areas that needed the most.

I do believe some people are born into it naturally or it is a gift for them to lead, and others are getting it through theory and work related experience. A true leader's performance reflects his or her character because this are the attributes that builds up a leader in any kind of society, business, or regions they represent. In addition, discern wisdom, fairness and honest governance are the type of shining model a good active leader usually demonstrate.

(George)

M.Williams said...

I believe leadership is someone who cares enough for the people around them to help and guide them through good and bad times.Someone who can influence others and share their experiences to teach and coach them.Leadership is often times putting others first before themselves and they lead by example.

salexander said...

The most important thing that a leader needs to remember is to lead by example. I have had many leaders who do not follow this, and then wonder why the people who work for them do not take them seriously. So, I would say that my personal definition of leadership is, to effectively direct members of a team by setting high standards with the highest level of character.

I do not think that just anyone could be a leader. You have to be a real people person and have high standards for yourself. If you do not possess high standards for yourself, then how do you expect those who are working for you to set high goals for themselves?

Angel P said...

A good leader never ask their followers to do something they would not do. I think that a good leader cares about and empowers others to take ownship of their duties. Good leaders will value their employees and listen to their issue, thoughts, and ideals. Respect and fairness will be shown by that leader and their followers will always be loyal.

CharityWorks said...

If someone was to ask me, what's the first word that comes to mind when I think of leadership, then I would said "vision and the next word would be purpose. When I think of leadership, I believe that person in this role should either be a visionary or operate with a specific purpose in mind that would inspire those around to act

I believe leadership can be activity done on any level of an organization. A person can lead horizontally or laterally, if he or she does not have a prominent position. Other words that come to mind are: influence, inspire, challenged, risk-taker, in tuned, aware, meaningful and deliberated. These other words come to mind, because I believe a leader should have these abilities, while intentionally work towards a goal.

IWU (T. Dixon)

LindaL said...

To me, being a leader means not only leading people competently, but being humble enough to recognize when they should be a follower, especially of those they lead. No one ever stops learning and there is often a lot to be learned from those who are perceived as the "followers". Real leaders know when they need to become the followers and how to make it a learning - and often a growing - experience for everyone involved.

Anonymous said...

Here is a great statement that sums it up better than I can.

http://www.theleaderwith7faces.com/2007/11/keywords-for-leadership-definition.html

Leaders inspire you to achieve, not only as an individual but as a team. They might do this through speeches, writings, demonstrations. The leaders that truly stand above will always do this through their actions and holding to their core value no matter the adversity.

Pam Hammel said...

To me the definition of leadership is one who sets an example with ethical characteristics. One who can motivate others to be the best they can be and being proud of who they are. Leadership is about caring and understanding among people of all gender and ethnic groups. Leaders should treat others with respect knowing they are no different than anyone else.

Randy said...

My definition of leadership is leading by example. Leading by example constitutes several characteristics. They include, compassion, integrity and the ability to understand their subordinates capabilities. A good leader will form a team that compliments their style, and gives them the empowerment to make him/her a succesful leader. Another quality of a leader which will make them succesful and have their teams full cooperation is by accepting the blame and giving the team credit.

Anonymous said...

My definition of leadership would be a person who leads by example. This could be easily seen in our every days lives with children. Every day when we love and instruct our children, we are leading them also in the way they should go. Children normally follow by example,so the mimic what others do. With this in mind I believe the best way to lead is by example,if you are not willing to do something yourself you should not ask some one else to do it for you. Also as a leader you should build those under you up and encourage them to perform to the best of their ability.
Clare Fox,BBA056 MGT 205

Anthony (Tony) said...

A good leader may or may not be aware of the powers they have. They are simply doing what they feel has to be done to achieve a goal and are doing it in such a manor that others are attracted to their personality and are lead by their example. A good leader is humble, quick to share praise and success, creates a positive atmosphere that attracts people and promotes success

Kristen Bostrom said...

My definition of leadership is someone who is able to motivate their employees to work to the best of their abilities. I believe that to be a leader you need to be able to have the respect of your employees and be able to inspire them to work effectively and efficiently. Leadership also means being able to foresee, identify, and solve problems that occur in the workplace. Knowing how to adapt your style so that you can reach each individual employee on a personal basis is also a very important part of leadership.
Kristen Bostrom

Brandi said...

I think that leadership is positive actions displayed by someone who directs or guides followers. Leaders are individuals who are enthusiastic, loyal, encouraging, courageous, honest, competent, and intelligent. For me, a leader is someone I look up to. They should be good role models because generally all eyes are on the leader.

Anonymous said...

Leadership? Leadership is providing the means for those under our charge to be the very best they can be all while achieving the desired goal. This "means" could be tangible; materials, resources, etc. and non-tangible; praise, confidence,and direction. I personally favor the non-tangible aspects; leaders should serve to inspire their subordinates allowing them to excel beyond what was believed acheivable in their undertakings.

Gena said...

Leadership is the perception of admitting that you are wrong even when you are right. In other words taking one for the team. There is a misconception that leadership means to lead, it also requires having the ability to follow. Following a subordinate does not mean you are not showing management qualities. It means you can accept another a persons ideal and/or have an open mind for a suggestion or opinion other then your own. Leadership requires listening, observing, delegating, suggesting, motivating, mediating, and caring.

Anonymous said...

The original post made me think about the differences between a leader and a manager. Some people use the terms interchangeably, but I think they are miles apart. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/leader defines a leader as “a guiding or directing head, as of an army, movement, or political group.” The same site defines a manager as “a person who controls and manipulates resources and expenditures, as of a household.” We should manage things “money, budgets, etc.”…we should lead people!

Stacey Lewis said...

I can see a use for blogging especially in journalism. This can allow you to perfect your craft. I do see other applications as well though. In business you can create networks, share ideas, and maybe even help each other with difficult situations. I never thought I'd use FaceBook or LinkdIn either but I've found myself using more technology as the years pass. I suppose the downside to these new technologies is we have a false sense of social interactions. We in fact have less face to face time and more time spent interacting on blogs and social networking sites.

Nasiya said...

My name is Nasiya Walker (IWU, MGT 205) My definition of leadership is leading someone to the best of their abilities; trying to bring out the potential in someone and to teach them to shine. Showing someone how you present yourself, this way that person can pull off your positivity. Showing how passionate you are to leadership and working hard can help express the leadership that you are trying to teach. Taking certain form criticism would be another form of leadership; in order for you to be a leader and give criticism you also have to know how to take it in and use it for good.

Stacey Lewis said...

My definition of leadership is someone that is able to guide people to their greatest heights. This leader should be able to enhance a person’s strengths and assist them with overcoming their weaknesses. This person should set clearly defined goals for everyone and be consistent with all members of the staff. This person will be respectful and understanding but still be able to meet clearly defined goals. When a mistake is made, this person will own the mistake, ask advice on how best to fix this error, and learn from what happened. A leader will understand that their team and how they treat their team can make or break them as a leader.

Anonymous said...

From what I have learned so far in my classes my definition of leadership would be a motivator, guide and listener. On the other hand my dad has done significant research into leadership and defines it more as one who takes initiative. Personally I believe a combination of both definitions makes a leader. Leaders must take initiative by making decisions, motivating and guiding people as well as listening to employees that discover new efficient and effective ideas. My most significant discovery of leadership has been that most great new ideas come from employees, not necessarily the managers. This new concept defines the role of a leader and therefore leadership to serving employees. The judge of an effective leader or managers directly relates to the effectiveness of their followers or employees.

Josh Stevens

Anonymous said...

Leadership can take on many different definitions. It is determined by yourself and your own personal values that were instilled in you. By having good morals and repect for others great leadership is possible.Kristi Lee