MGMT433:

Lesson 1: What is Leadership? Part I

What Is Leadership?

While there are numerous definitions of leadership, most theories agree on the following elements: The process of leadership involves a complex interaction among the leader, the followers, and the situation. Leadership can occur at multiple levels in an organization, including individual, group, and organizational levels. Its primary focus is goal accomplishment. Leadership effectiveness isn't completely in the leader's control; followers' expectations, attitudes, and behavior affect how well the presumed leader can lead.

According to Northouse (2013), "Leadership is the process whereby an individual influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal" (p. 5). The source of this influence may be formal, meaning that the person is in a leadership role because of their position in the organization. Leaders can also emerge in an informal fashion by influencing others outside of the formal organizational structure.

A leader is "a person who can influence others to be more effective in working to achieve their mutual goals and maintain effective working relationships among members" (Johnson & Johnson, 2013, p. 168). Generally speaking, the role of a leader is to develop individuals (the followers), build effective teams, and attain specific goals.

Leadership is often compared and contrasted with management. Managers typically perform functions associated with planning, supervising, and organizing; they're focused on efficiency and manage resources accordingly. Leaders, on the other hand, are visionary. They deal with the interpersonal aspects of a manager’s job and inspire their followers. It's typically part of the manager’s job to execute the vision outlined by the leader. Table 1.1 shows common differences between leaders and managers.