Leadership is demonstrated - not measured

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Leadership isn't a solo activity. Most leaders are supported by great people who help them deal with the problems we all face. Self doubt, uncertainty, emotional challenges, even well disguised character flaws can all be managed by those who stand by those who lead.

In summary, leadership is demonstrated and not measured. In my opinion leadership is an ineffable quality which cannot be distilled, analysed, deconstructed and then injected or programmed into those who don't possess this quality innately.

The ordinary workplace can be dysfunctional when it comes to the identification and development of leaders. Instead of focussing on the bulk development of people to become leaders, let us put in place systems through which potential leaders can be identified and then developed. This should be the focus area for all organisations, recognising once and for all that not all are born to lead.

Bradley de Souza (bradley@xtanz.com) is an internationally recognised CIO/CTO who has specialised in change and transformation across industries around the world.