While definitions of leadership vary widely, the one that comes closest to consensus is leading a team to achieve its goals. This definition tells us that the essence of leadership is not ability, not position, but action. This definition also tells us that the essence of leadership is responsibility—assuming responsibility for leading the team to achieve its goals. We all face such responsibilities in society, in organizations, and in families. Therefore, leadership can be said to be a matter for each of us.
1. Leadership has three meanings: position, ability and action. The three meanings of leadership are intertwined and are also three aspects that complement each other.
2. Leading teams to achieve goals is a broadly applicable definition of leadership. This definition incorporates two basic dimensions of leadership behavior: task behavior (achievement of goals) and relational behavior.
3. The essence of leadership is action - leading the team to achieve goals. It can also be said that the essence of leadership is responsibility, taking responsibility for leading the team to achieve goals.
4. Leadership is not equal to power. Power must be used to exercise leadership, but using power does not necessarily mean exercising leadership. Organizational managers have seven powers that can serve as leadership resources.
5. Leadership is not equal to position. Positions can be a resource for leadership or a hindrance to leadership.
6. Leadership is not equal to quality. Character can be a resource to leadership or a hindrance to leadership.
7. Leadership does not equal charisma. Charisma is often a burden for leaders. Distinguish three types of charisma: superhuman charisma, great man charisma, and mortal charisma.
8. Leadership is primarily about conceptual and interpersonal skills, not technical skills.