A MILESTONE IN LEADERSHIP?

   Leadership emerges from shared experiences, external pressures and more so, an internal need to break free and do things better. What are some of the recent developments in leadership theories? Has there been any path-breaking research in 2011? “I think leadership has evolved from a closed format to an open one. Earlier, power and authority to decide were restricted to only a few people, especially the ones that belonged to the top management; though there is a stark change in this approach, the lower-rung employees still does not enjoy decision-making power. Nations developed from autocratic to democratic and our family system (which once upon a time was ruled or monopolised by men) now resembles a modern-day egalitarian structure. The transition needs to take place in the corporate scenario as well,” says Professionals. 

   At the same time, there are those who feel that not much has changed with respect to the basic concepts underlying leadership. “The beauty of universal truths and fundamental principles of leadership is that they are unchanging. The qualities that lead people to become great and beneficial leaders are universal truths and so they are not subject to constant change. However, people today suffer from what I call the ‘instant coffee syndrome’ – they want everything instantly – at the most – from a two-day training programme.”

   Another leadership theory that has emerged is that of tailored leadership approach. “A diverse and tailored leadership approach is more in-demand with growing employee expectations. A one size-fit-all approach leadership is inadequate for ensuring smooth work in the 21st century. Keeping this in mind, collective leadership is the most recent development, according to me. A large group of people come together, make an actionable plan, brainstorm and commit to making things happen. Participative theory encourages contributions from group members who are committed to the decision making process,” feels another professional.