What Do You Mean Leadership Isn’t Sexy? The Truth Behind Effective Leadership

Leadership often comes with an already well-established and respected reputation, and often for good reason, but those of us in leadership positions, whatever they might be, know that that reputation is often accompanied by a set of assumptions that are not necessarily all that straightforward or even correct. As a recent article by Derek Brown notes, when it comes to effective leadership, the position is often not a glamorous one.

According to Brown, “Leadership is not glamorous. It’s gritty. It’s hard. Not everyone who wants to lead others can, or should, lead others.” And it is true; the responsibilities of a leader, especially an effective one, can involve a great deal of give and take, and not necessarily in a good way.

Additionally, Brown gives us several reasons why leadership just isn’t as glamorous as some might like to believe, especially those NOT in leadership positions.

1. Leadership requires making difficult decisions, often to the detriment of something or someone who doesn’t deserve it.
2. Leaders bear responsibility for outcomes often out of their control.
3. Leaders see things often well before others can envision the same thing, which is highly frustrating.
4. Leaders lead people. And people are people.

As straightforward as these may seem, they are all too often forgotten by those being led. And, if they are forgotten by those in leadership positions, those individuals may not be the best person for the job. Focusing more on the glitz rather than the nitty-gritty may be one way to get things done, but it likely isn’t the most effective.

Effective leadership may not be sexy, but when the right person is in the right position, it can be far more rewarding. And if the wrong person is in the position, it might be time to think about making some changes…

For more about effective leadership, or the characteristics of a good leader, please contact Innovators Alliance by calling 1-905-332-0340.

Check out the full article here: https://www.linkedin.com/today/post/article/20140602184925-9454814-leadership-is-not-sexy.