What is Leadership?

“What is leadership?” When considering the question that has been asked numerous times before, take a step back and consider the leadership objectives. Recognize the reasons for becoming a leader, recall the differences in approaches and styles, and identify the various roles of leaders. Many may not consider themselves leaders, but a leader can be anyone who supervises, guides, or influences even one person. Think of leadership not as a title or position of authority but as what you do and, more importantly, how you do it—improving individuals, departments, organizations, and communities of various sizes and purposes.

As it often is with many activities, good leadership often goes unnoticed, and so does its definition. Conversely, bad leadership is easily recognizable; the boss yells, takes credit for others’ work, micromanages, etc. Many individuals might judge their bosses or other superiors with phrases such as, “He is not bad,” “I have had worse,” or even “He is very good to work for.” But why? Digging deeper and pondering what makes them good bosses and leaders is the answer to “What is good leadership?”

Leadership is not something any person is born with; it is a skill that must be honed and improved like any other. Persistence, determination, and conscious decision to forge ahead can lead to excellent leadership skills. Any leader must have perseverance, determination, and the conscious will to forge ahead. As with any skill, numerous qualities and variations are combined to make every leader unique. Many of these qualities themselves can be studied, learned, and applied in your life to make you a better leader.

So, what is leadership? Leadership comes in many forms and variations. There is no universally defined standard for being a leader, as evidenced by various quotes from notable leaders. “The key to successful leadership is influence, not authority.” – Kenneth H. Blanchard. “My job is not to be easy on people. My job is to take these great people we have and push them to make them even better.” – Steve Jobs. “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” – said Mahatma Gandhi. Each of us is unique, each of us has our outlook on the world, and each of us will have our leadership style. Recognizing your strengths to make yourself the leader you envision is the first step toward being a leader. So, the first question to reflect on is: What qualities, characteristics, or behaviors do you think to make a good and bad leader?

References
Advanced Controller and CFO Skills: Leadership Styles; Change Management. e-book, Durham,
NC, Association of International Certified Public Accountants, 2021.