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My Definition of Leadership

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I have written much about leadership, and what some of the things are that need to happen for retailers to push through this sluggish economy. I have received and email asking me to provide my definition of a good leader or leadership. I thought it was relevant enough to share in this forum.

My personal definition of a strong Leader is: An individual that by a combination of their words and actions inspires people to act towards a vision that they have clearly provided.

I firmly believe that leadership is a perfect marriage between communication and vision. If you do not know where you have been, or where you are going, it is impossible to get people to follow. Without vision, there is no leadership. Even if you have a strong vision, then comes the tough part - communicating it in such a way that others don't just agree with you, the believe in you!

Unfortunately, I don't know anyone that can train on how to truly be a leader (although several leadership classes exist). But I can tell you that "practicing what you preach" is definitely a good place to start!!


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  1. AnonymousOctober 18, 2009 at 8:28 PM

    I believe that noone can become a efficient leader or take the initiative in any great undertaking without belief in himself.

    And what is initiative? It is doing the right thing without being told and this my friend, to me, makes for a great leader!

    Great insite my friend!

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