What is a leader? A leader is a multifaceted style that encompasses more than managing people. According to Kevin Kruse in an article for Forbes, “Leadership skills don’t automatically happen when you reach a certain pay grade.” (What is Leadership?) It is a learning experience all its own.
“Leadership scholars define a leader as a person who sets attractive goals and has the ability to attract followers, or constituents, who share those goals. Above all, a leader must be trusted and respected. Trust between a leader and constituent’s opens up two-way communication, making it possible for them to realize their common goals.” (Marvin Bower, The Will to Lead)
One of the most important aspects of leadership is good communication skills. Whether it is coaching or delivering performance evaluations, leaders need to have the ability to communicate effectively. Leadership and communication skills can be taught. The ability to communicate and build teams is important for emerging leaders to be able motivate groups of people toward a common goal—the goal of the business.
In an article, Businesses Don’t Fail – Leaders Do, Mike Myatt writes: ”Why do businesses fail? If you’re willing to strip away all the excuses, explanations, rationalizations, and justifications for business failures, and be really honest in your analysis, you’ll find only one plausible reason—poor leadership.”
In our new course series, Management to Leadership, instructor Dena Loverde explores the differences between managing people and leading them. Not everyone is a leader, but with the leadership skills learned in this course anyone can learn to be one.
Check out our Free Demo today! It will be well worth your time.
