Leadership theories for EAs
Every year a plethora of books , articles and principles adding to leadership paradigms are shared across all mediums . Amidst these trends there ’ s a concept that ’ s become popular in recent years : ‘ everyone is a leader .’ This is closer to truth than you may imagine , writes Mark Carter
Leadership is a curious word . Even though it ’ s existed in action since the earliest civilisations , the expression itself is new , termed only in the last couple of centuries .
For 94,000 of 100,000 years of humanity , tribes were effectively acephalous , meaning they operated without any specific head . There was no singular nominated leader . You would be given permission to lead by peers amongst your tribe , and they may be willing to follow essentially based on merit , competencies and skills .
It ’ s only in the last three to six thousand years of human history that chieftains and formal leaders were placed at the tribal or group head , these titles then being passed on through hereditary birth right . Or , perhaps , gained through strategic alliances , marriage and partnerships of convenience designed to expand a dynasties influence , wealth or power . Or , something we know also happens in business , through political or strategic manoeuvres at times .
There are some clues in the evolution of theories that EAs can learn from then keep tapping into , to be seen amidst your own organisation as a natural leader that others are willing to follow .
The traits of great leaders Many of the earliest leadership concepts centered on a focus that someone was destined to be a leader at certain historical times . This principle is still discussed as having relevance . Think , in the United States , of the variety of Native American Indian leaders , like Geronimo ( who powerfully resisted the subjugation of his people ) through to Franklin D Roosevelt , the only president elected four times . A personal favourite , representing strong female leaders , is Joan of Arc who was entrusted to lead French armies against the English at the tender age of sixteen .
54 Executive PA | Autumn Issue 2022