Leadership Philosophy



Leadership PhilosophyA leader’s development of his or her own philosophy is based on a personal set of beliefs and principles which influence the way we see the way the world works. A leader’s philosophy works with personal interpretation and understanding of leadership and this affects how we react to people and situations around us. In the article “The Importance of a Clear Leadership Philosophy” leadership philosophy consists of beliefs that describes the following: What you believe about people; what you believe about life; and what you believe makes groups and organizations effective. Leadership should be flexible and adapt to the requirements of the situation (Northouse 2016), however one’s personal values can interfere with that approach to leadership. One nationwide example of that is Rowan County, Kentucky, Clerk Kim Davis. Her personal values which contributes to her leadership philosophy interferes with the ability to be flexible in her leadership role. In this paper, I will discuss the development of a leadership philosophy and how it can make a person a better leader.LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY DEVELOPMENTMost theorist would agree there is no “one way” to lead. Various approaches to leadership is rooted in personal values and a personal definition of leadership. In a corporate situation, leadership philosophy should include the company’s mission and goals as well. For example, if a company uses a situational approach to leadership, those who lead will be matched will followers whose competence and commitment are on a specific level defined by 4 specific leadership styles (Northouse, 2016). If my leadership philosophy consists of thinking outside the box, instead of specific goals to accomplish a task and allowing employees to make day to day decisions, my philosophy would be consistent with an S3 approach to leadership under the situational leadership theory.Another part of leadership philosophy includes the culture and expectations of the company. Understanding the culture and expectations of the company should be included as part of a leader’s philosophy. Some examples are:Company 1: Our philosophy is this- “We have leaders who are firm believers in the spirit of compromise. Our leaders find balances between people and the task at hand. Although we are mindful of the task at hand, we care about those who perform the task. The leaders tend to avoid conflicts and disagreements in order to maintain a harmonious relationship with pany 2: Our philosophy is this- “Our leaders are people centered. They have the ability to work effectively with others, followers and superiors to get the work done. The leaders are concerned about creating a comfortable space for employees and taking into account the needs of others before a decision is made.These approaches to leadership although similar may have different culture or expectations on how to achieve its mission. While both companies take the human factor into consideration, Company 1 can be described as middle of the road management on The Leadership Grip. Company 2 can be described as a human skill approach under the Three Skill Approach. Creating a Leadership PhilosophyAccording to “Refining Your Leadership Philosophy & Style,” the following questions will help to develop your leadership philosophy. 1. Give your philosophy a short, concise title. 2. Briefly describe your philosophy. 3. Name which parts come from what Leadership Theories. 4. Name your most important influences. Using the theories we have learned so far, I would like to use a fictitious company that has hired me as upper management.Acme LLC, is a five year old company that makes widgets. In an effort to expand it into markets nationwide, I was hired to increase production a one of the company’s satellite locations. After going through orientation, the company bosses explained to me the mission, the culture and the values of the company. I will be in charge of five middle management supervisors and 25 workers. I believe in this product, so my leadership philosophy is “Together We Can.” It will be an inclusive approach with clear precise goals. My philosophy includes treating employees fairly, but realizing the final decision is mine alone to make. One major component would be communication with everyone, creating a for the most part, a transparent atmosphere. Everyone will (or should) be aware of the goals of the company and the steps need to complete the tasks. Theories that influenced me the most is the Leadership Grid and situational theories. I believe that motivation and dedication to employees and the job will lead to high performing as well as high satisfaction with the job.ConclusionLeadership philosophy is not a cookie cutter approach to management, also it is not a job description. For managers, it provides common ground among management as a tool to measure performance. It is a tool for growth because philosophy can change according to experience and education. It also shapes our culture and my reduce conflicts within organizations.REFERENCESAmbler, George. (2012 July 12). The Importance of a Clear Leadership Philosophy. Retrieved from: Drinon, Rich M.A. Refining Your Leadership Philosophy & Style. Retrieved from:, Peter G. (2016). Leadership: Theory and Practice. Los Angeles: Sage Publishing. ................
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