Leadership definition affects organizational culture

A great many people have attempted to come up with an effective leadership definition. Webster’s defines leadership as: “a position as a leader of a group, organization, etc.; the time when a person holds the position of leader; the power or ability to lead other people.” However, this doesn’t tell you what a leader actually does or the key attributes of a leader.

We prefer this definition of leadership: the skill of influencing individuals and teams to enthusiastically accomplish common goals, previously thought impossible, with character that inspires excellence. (Contrast this with management, which is a more short term time frame that involves efficient use of resources.)

Leaders have the power to become your organization’s greatest champion and are the conduit from high level strategy to inspiration of the troops to drive action. Ensure that your key leaders motivate and engage others.

Some areas to consider:

• Vision: A clear, long term vision and direction is key to convey to every employee so they know how they specifically fit into the goals and how to win with what they do each day.
• Score: Measure high level strategic goals, intermediate progress and individual metrics weekly or monthly and – most importantly –  communicate them clearly.
• Feedback: Candid, ongoing and relevant. This isn’t a once per year, check the box event anymore. Continuous improvement is needed to remain agile and change in response to business conditions.