The Changing Role of Leadership (or A Changing Leadership for a Changing World)

It is a paradox of globalization that, as the world becomes more interconnected, groups that come together – physically or virtually– are becoming more heterogeneous rather than more homogeneous. Common elements of globalization, such as language use and technological communication systems, are indeed becoming more universal, but the various individuals drawn together by these vehicles increasingly represent diversity rather than uniformity.

On the negative side, the heightened awareness of difference can lead to polarization, to a retreat from the surge towards greater interdependence and collaboration. In its extreme form, it may lead to a narrow chauvinism or a desperate stance to preserve local identities and cultures at the expense of rejecting –sometimes with violence – all that is not perceived as one’s own. On the positive side, a healthy diversity can lead to a mutual respect and understanding of differences, and the potential for growth, harmony, and learning that can come from rich interaction.

It is in the context of this setting that the role of leadership can and must evolve. Management and leadership are often studied, discussed, and practiced in the context of a relatively homogenous work-force and a static organizational setup. Hence the focus on managing people, time, and other resources towards clearly identified and fixed goals, in the most efficient manner possible. Priority attention implicitly shifts from the individuals being managed to the goals and targets to be achieved.