Are We Settling for Less from Our Leaders Today?

Imagine standing at a crossroads, compass in hand, only to find the needle spinning aimlessly. Do we blame the instrument, or question the forces at play? In today’s whirlwind leadership climate, a pressing question emerges: Have we lowered our expectations of leaders, or are our standards simply evolving?

The Evolving Landscape of Leadership Expectations

Leadership isn’t static; it’s a living concept that shifts with societal tides. Recent research suggests our expectations haven’t diminished but transformed. The 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer revealed a nuanced shift: while trust in traditional institutions wavers, there’s a burgeoning demand for leaders who proactively tackle societal challenges like climate change and inequality (Edelman, 2023). It’s as if we’re seeking captains who not only navigate the storm but also mend the sails en route.

Political Leadership: The Emperor’s New Clothes

The ascent of populist figures might imply we’re captivated by grand promises over genuine progress. Yet, global movements advocating for transparency and integrity tell a different tale. The Global Corruption Barometer by Transparency International (2022) highlights that a significant portion of the world’s population is weary of corruption, yearning for leaders who embody higher ethical standards. Much like the child who points out the emperor’s lack of attire, society is beginning to see through the facade, demanding authenticity over illusion.

Corporate Leadership: Beyond the Bottom Line

In the corporate realm, success metrics extend beyond profit margins. According to the Deloitte Global Human Capital Trends report (2023), approximately 70% of surveyed individuals believe CEOs should actively engage with societal issues. Employees and consumers alike expect leaders to be gardeners of society, nurturing not just their own plots but contributing to the flourishing of the entire ecosystem. Profit without purpose is like a ship without a destination—afloat but aimless.

The Digital Age: A Double-Edged Sword

Social media has turned leaders into open books, their every move dissected in real-time. This relentless scrutiny is a double-edged sword—it demands transparency but leaves little room for error. In our hyper-connected world, perhaps we’re not expecting less but are quicker to hold leaders accountable, much like an audience watching a high-wire act without a safety net.

Pattern Interrupt: Just When Leadership Seemed Lost…

Just when it appeared that exemplary leadership was fading, we witness individuals and organisations stepping up, embodying the very qualities we yearn for. From corporate leaders championing sustainability to political figures advocating for social justice, signs of hopeful change emerge—proof that leadership is not lost but transforming.

Conclusion

Maybe it's time to redefine what we expect from our leaders, and also how we support them in meeting these expectations. Leadership without vision is like a lighthouse without a light—present but unhelpful. As people developers, employees, and consumers, we hold the power to demand more, to encourage leaders who are authentic, accountable, and aligned with the greater good.

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References

? Edelman. (2023). 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer. Retrieved from https://www.edelman.co.uk/trust/2023-trust-barometer

? Transparency International. (2022). Global Corruption Barometer. Retrieved from https://www.transparency.org/en/gcb

? Deloitte. (2023). Global Human Capital Trends. Retrieved from https://www2.deloitte.com/uk/en/insights/focus/human-capital-trends.html