Strategic Leadership

16 Strategic Leadership

circumstance. As we examine many of these broad characteristics of leadership,
we also begin to get a good sense of how different aspects of leadership can be
learned and taught, and the place and potential for learning a structured process
of strategic leadership.

A Spectrum of Leadership Characteristics

In effect, the possibility for both attributes and practices of leadership to
be learned can be considered as points along an uneven and disjointed spec-
trum, punctuated by the unpredictability of the influence of circumstances on
individuals and groups. Although subject to a great deal of fluctuation and varia-
tion, it is helpful to think of three broad zones along the leadership spectrum:
(1) fixed characteristics, (2) forms of practice and behavior, and (3) methods of
thinking, problem solving, and deciding. As one moves along the spectrum, the
characteristics of leadership become more predictably subject to different forms
of experience, intentional development, and formal education.

Fixed Characteristics

Consider some of the categories that seem to describe a person’s ways of being,
or the fixed elements of identity that are more or less defined by genetic pre-
disposition, the stable characteristics of personality, the influences of powerful
formative experiences, and the deepest commitments to values and beliefs. Attri-
butes of this sort noted by Gardner include high intelligence, courage and resolu-
tion, the need to achieve, the willingness to accept responsibility, confidence and
assertiveness, adaptability, and physical stamina. Although there are undoubtedly
many exceptional cases and circumstances, these characteristics are difficult to
change intentionally or fundamentally through teaching and learning in the adult
years.

Forms of Practice and Behavior

At the midpoint along the spectrum, the characteristics of leadership tend to
consist of forms of practice, action, and behavior. Thus, we find on Gardner’s list
skills in dealing with people, the ability to motivate others, the understanding of
followers’ needs, and the capacity to win and maintain trust. These patterns of
action and forms of relationship are in large measure learned through a variety

Table 1.1

The Spectrum of Leadership Characteristics

Fixed characteristics Forms of practice and

behavior

Methods: knowledge,

skills, and expertise