What gets in the way of good leadership? The easiest way to categories the obstacles is by dividing them into personal and organizational, although they are heavily influenced by one another.
PERSONAL BARRIERS
People have ingrained modes of thought and feeling which prevent them from becoming good leaders. Often, the individual in question has no idea these exist and can only find out and alter his or her behavior through constant and honest feedback.
Although these can be many personal barrier, the most common seems to be low self-esteem. Such individuals strive either for self-aggrandizement or try too hard to be liked. They are either the office tyrants or the sycophants. In either case, they command little respect because they are inconsistent and fail to hold themselves or their team accountable.
This eventually creates a climate of perverse incentives and mistrust.
ORGANISATIONAL BARRIERS
It can, however, work the other way around, where weak organization culture seeps through to individual level. The company "way of doing things" can have a profound effect on its leadership.
For example, it could be the structure of an organization that prevents good leadership from developing. Rigid hierarchies, in which employees do not have a unlikely to produce successful leaders simply because staff are not given the opportunity or the belief. Authority, role or status does not confer leadership.
Companies with poor communication and internal conflict will find it difficult to unite behind a common goal. For example, downsizing under the label of creating shareholder value and appraisal schemes that do not allow proper feedback breed cynicism rather than inspire loyalty.
All this adds up to a widespread culture so entrenched that it becomes impossible for any individual to combat it.
NATURE VERSUS NURTURE
There are those who favour the nature versus nurture debate and maintain that some people simply were not born to lead. This, and not the lack of training or support, is the main barrier to successful leadership.
Although, there may be an element of truth is this, it is essentially a poor excuse for poor organizational behaviour. Admittedly, some people may never become great leaders but the majority of employees can become inspirational and trustworthy.
It is not about possessing exceptional personality traits, but simply about good management. Leadership exists in a relationship between leaders and followers, and as such can be acquired and learnt. Effective mentoring and self-development on various levels can support the nurturing process. Networking should also be recognized as an opportunity to learn from other leaders.
LEADING INTO THE ELECTRONIC WORLD
Technology
Knowledge gathering and sharing in an organization can be improved by the internet, intranet, electronic mail (e-mail) and mobile communications. A leader should recognize the advantages of these technologies for improving organizational dynamics such as increasing the speed of communication, managing time better and building relationships with remote parts of the organization. Such technology can also improve a company's profile.
Communication
Despite the advent of this technology, traditional leadership approaches are still valid and the need for effective interpersonal skills should not be underestimated. Skills such as how to best listen, question, present and write, conduct an effective meeting and get the best out of a team can be continually improved. Self development in these areas will also help improve one's contribution as a leader.
Relationship
Electronic communication is not appropriate where a vision needs to be shared and commitment gained or these are sensitive work issues that need to be discussed and/or personal attention. Persuading and influencing, for example, are not effectively done using e-mail. Face-to-face communication and being visible remains crucial to becoming a good leader.
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