Imagine you were interviewing for a new job and asked, “Please tell me the leadership theory to which senior leadership largely subscribes and drives their behaviors?”
“Oh! I’m so glad you asked,” might come the reply. “Our executives function with the ‘Great Man’ theory: the belief that they were born with the ability to lead – and you weren’t.”
Or, perhaps this answer: “Unquestionably, we function from the management theory of leadership. Our top-down approach reflects that.”
How would you respond? Would you take the job if the theory of leadership your potential boss functioned from wasn’t aligned with your values and beliefs?
Some organizations suffer massive discontent within the workforce because the employee base wishes those above them would lead differently than they do. (This is when it’s helpful to remember you have choice.)
What do your leadership actions communicate about your belief regarding the best way to lead others?