What is a Leader?
Preparation:
Read: Peter M. Senge, "The leader's new work: building learning
organizations," Sloan Management Review, 7-23, Fall 1990.
Read: Norman R. Augustine, "Twelve qualities of leader," Lockheed Martin broschure.
Peter Senge: A leader should be a designer, teacher and servant of the organizaiton
What are Traditional Views of a Leader?
Interested in the Why
Motivates
At Front
Has Vision
Owns Project
Powerful
- influence
- gets his/her way
Knowledgeable
- has all the answers (like Paul O'Neill, )
Charisma
- skilled at making people want to follow
- has deep Conviction
- Why is conviction attractive?
It's magical (we're attracted by qualities we almost understand but don't)
It's inspirational
Presence (physical or perceived size)
Enjoyment and Interest in Field
You can inspire people by making them think that they can enjoy something
as much as you do.
Leaders care so much about what they do, that you want to help them achieve it.
What are Traditional Views of a Manager?(As Opposed to a Leader)
Interested in the What and How
Organizes
Coordinates
Interprets Vision
Has Sense of Detachment from Project
Decision Maker
Manages Resources and Relationships
Directs as opposed to Does
How does one notice the difference between a leader and a manager?
One has to become an aware or practiced observer. It is much like how a
music critic can tell the difference between good and bad orchestra
conductors.
Why should one know the difference?
To correct problems and to be either a leader or manager, according to what is
needed.
There are many styles of leadership and management. This was demonstrated
in interviews with several top leaders/managers by Robert J. Thomas (Institute
for Strategic Change, Accenture). These interviews are discussed at
geeksandgeezers.com.
Two interviews that were shown in class were contrasted:
Outcome Oriented vs. Process Oriented
Focused vs. Balanced
Directing Organization vs. Co-working People
How large of an organization do you direct? vs. What projects have you
accomplished?
Quotes:
"People who worry about balance have no overriding passion."
"Failing is okay."
"Ask why and question authority."
Follow-Up:
Write in Journal Your Personal Vision.
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