Teaching Leadership

Some individuals are thought to be ‘natural’ leaders – they seemingly step into the role fully functional – such as George Washington.

Some individuals develop as leaders once in the role – Steve Jobs, for example.

Some individuals learn leadership by opening their mind and soaking up the rich material provided by other leaders, coaches, individuals from business and academia.

Based on this sampling, individuals can learn leadership.

At a recent presentation about leadership I noted no organization has a position ‘leader’. Dick Davies offered a description: ‘Leadership is a collection of behaviors, a calling, and a practice.’

Can we teach behavior? Passion? Continuous practical development and application?…

Can we teach leadership?

Teaching leadership may be like making policy.

Policy can make people do things; but not make them do it well.

What do you think?