Leadership vs. Authority

posted by Patrick Jinks
Friday, May 18, 2007 8:35 AM
I really looked forward to hearing Ron today. Having read his latest book, I was not surprised to hear him focus on the theme of leadership as it relates to authority. "Leading from any chair" is a concept UW professionals are finding to be critical to master. Direction, protection, and order are the three things humans seek. Authority is given to those who people trust to provide these things. Technical leadership (know-how) is effective in delivering this kind of provision. But when things change in such a way that there are no known answers, then adaptive leadership is called for, which is not always related to authority. Since it's authority's job to have answers, the people in authority will provide answers even if they are wrong. It's much harder for leaders to admit they don't have the answers. Not only is it harder, but it is also more dangerous for a leader.

Heifetz's book "Leadership on the Line" focuses on this dynamic.

Heifetz delivery style took some time to get momentum this morning, but the substance built to a great revealing point of climax. Our challenge as community problem solvers is adaptive. We have to provide leadership without authority. When we realize this is the kind of work needed, we will make progress!

Friday, May 18, 2007 8:35 AM Permalink |  
Comments:
I was very inspired by the morning session, and very enlightened to realize the potential we all hold to be leaders and truly make change happen regardless of "the chair" we sit in. However, I am still left with the frustration of how to manage with or around authority figures that do not take the wisdom, direction, or expertise of those below or on the fray, and do not make ANY decision, right or wrong. Rather they keep those depending on their authority in limbo and rendered powerless. I am very comfortable with the concept of "managing up" and providing leadership at my level, but how do we continue on that road of progress when the ultimate decision maker isn't making a decision?
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