Definition of Leadership
Leadership has been defined in different ways by different sets of scholars. In very simple terms leadership can be defined as the skill of a person to influence an individual or a group for achievement of a goal in a given situation. One can use different dimensions and perspectives to define leadership. Through the evolution of leadership thought, leadership has been defined in various ways discussed here.
“A leader is one who has followers”; is a too simple a definition and this description does not clearly define what other attributes are associated with leadership. One can use different dimensions and perspectives to define leadership. Through the evolution of leadership thought, leadership has been defined in various ways with following perspectives:
- Group Processes
- Personality Perspective
- Behavioral Traits
- Power Relationships
- Process perspective
- Skills perspective
Definitions of Leadership
According to MacIver and Page Leadership is the capacity to persuade or to direct man that comes from personal qualities apart from office. It indicates the difference between leadership and office. An individual does not become a leader only by occupying an office which carries responsibility. It is a matter of secondary importance that his important office is of assistance to him in his endeavor to become a leader.
According to Philip A. Woods (2005) leadership is not just a set of free-standing actions i.e., it is not a linear process flowing from leader to the follower but it is a collective entity which comprises of the impetus and direction that emerges from the group which is more than the sum of its parts (the individuals) who make up a group or organization. .
Warren Bennis’ definition of leadership is focused much more on the individual capability of the leader. He defined leadership as a function of knowing oneself, having a vision that is well communicated, building trust among colleagues, and taking effective action to realize one’s own leadership potential.
Leadership can also be called the catalyst that transforms potential into reality. The concept of leadership in itself covers all interpersonal relationships that influence the working of' the organization towards achieving its business objectives and growth.
Leadership is the art of influencing others to direct their will, abilities and efforts to the achievement of leader’s goals. In the context of organizations, leadership lies in influencing individual and group effort toward the optimum achievement of organizational objectives.
Keith Davis observes that, “without leadership, an organization is but a muddle of men and machines…Leadership transforms potential into reality. It is the ultimate act which brings to success all the potential that is in an organization and its people”.
Leadership is often defined as the art of influencing others (people) to strive willingly; to do what the leader wants them to do (often to do the mutually compatible objectives) with zeal and confidence.
According to Dayal (1999) leadership is development of people, not the task. A leader creates conditions for the development of individuality and enhancement of inherent capability of individuals.
The leader is the inspiration and director of the action. He is the person in the group that possesses the combination of personality and leadership skills that makes others want to follow his direction.
Leadership focuses on “people” aspect of management and is based on the assumption that organizational effectiveness significantly depends on their motivation, effort and abilities.
According to Pigors, “Leadership is a process of control in which by the assumption of superiority a person or group regulates the activities of others for purposes of his own choosing.”
In 1938, Chester Bernard gave a new definition of leadership and stated that, “leadership is the ability of a superior to influence the behaviour of subordinates and persuade them to follow a particular course of action”.
A recent theorist on leadership, Williams (2005), states that, “leadership is an interactive art in which the leader is dancing with the context, the problem, the faction, and the objective”.
It is encouraging and inspiring individuals and teams to give their best to achieve a desired result.
Leadership is an attribute of the person who is an ideal for the other members of the group.
Leadership is the behavior that affects the behavior of other people, more than their behavior affects that of the leader.
Leaders work with and through people to accomplish goals.
In the 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, John Maxwell sums up his definition of leadership as “leadership is influence - nothing more, nothing less.”
Anyone who acts as a model to others is often called a “leader”.
Leader leads, suggests, orders, and also guides. Other people follow him. We can say that leadership and domination are not the same meaning.
Peter Drucker defined a leader as someone who has followers.
What is the best definition of leadership?
It is difficult to qualitatively define leadership. Leadership involves various dimensions and attributes. A simple definition of leadership is that leadership is the art of motivating a group of people to act towards achieving a common goal. It is a psychological process of providing guidance for followers. To lead is to guide, conduct, direct, and proceed.
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