The success of any organization could be directly attributed to leadership, and leadership can be learned. Spectrum of influence is the foundation of leadership, regardless of how many people a person influences. One can influence many or just one, this influence also requires one to be capable and have good character. Work and authority are based on a combination of character and competence.
Misleading theories of leadership
There are many myths about leadership that have been debunked by research scholars, yet they continue to be repeated. These include, for example, that to be a leader one must exude charisma or be a certain age. It is also a myth that one must be in a managerial position or have a large budget to fund one’s ideas to be recognized as a leader. It is a fallacy that to be a leader one must also be a good speaker and have multiple academic titles.
In reality, people can meet all the supposed, conventional requirements of a leader and still fail to lead. On the other hand, a great leader may meet none of these supposed requirements.
Categories of leadership
Leaders should not intimidate others or take advantage of them to influence them. They can lead because people respect their character and competence-the essential elements of leadership.
In his book, “Leading with Character and Competence”, Timothy R. Clark advises readers that to increase their ability to lead, they must build their character to inspire others as well as increase their competence to be able to work effectively. The author outlines several types of leadership that stem from different combinations of character and competence.
Great leaders are those who have high levels of competence and character. Mastering both qualities allows them to have a significant impact on those around them. They enrich the inspiration and guidance they can offer to others. Their innate strength of character prevents them from sabotaging themselves by pretending, overdoing it in their quest for rank and position, or loving power and control too much.
Ineffective leaders possess high character but low competence. Such leaders try to delay complex tasks. They are overwhelmed by fear and embarrassed to put in the effort, so they choose only what they are comfortable doing. Some ineffective leaders who strive for higher achievement tend to become more effective, even if they improve slowly.
Failed leaders have neither character nor competence. They do not take responsibility for their actions and refuse to accept other people’s perceptions of their performance. Dangerous leaders are highly competent but lack character. A person of great intellect who is not honest possesses the traits of a dangerous leader. These leaders set no limits on what they want for themselves and sacrifice their morals to achieve material goals.
The four basic elements of character
According to Timothy Clark, the four essential elements of character are integrity, humility, courage, and responsibility. Integrity depends on whether one has accepted a set of values that one will never violate, regardless of temptation. Humility is the acceptance of the limits of knowledge. Leaders need courage because they face dangers that complicate their choices and can force them to make mistakes. Good leaders take responsibility for bad decisions and willingly change course even if others do not point out their mistakes.
Inclusive Leadership
Inclusive leadership is a leadership style that emphasizes an organizational culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to the success of the organization. Inclusive leaders are those who make people feel that they are in the right place and have a sense of belonging. These leaders value the diversity of experiences and perspectives of their team, encouraging collaboration.
