Decoding The 21st Century Leader

In the last ten years, management science has seen new hypothesis being tested very frequently and the firms, which kept their ears glued to the changing times, have survived and flourished. Others, who kept on preaching the gospel and believed they knew it all, are now confined to the history books and their demise is being taught as a case study in business schools.

Effective leadership is central to all aspects of designing and managing the changing nature of work. Today?s organizations look much different from yesterday?s. Boundaries are blurred across geographies, countries and cultures, markets, supplier networks, and alliances. The 21st Century leader must embrace, teach, coach, and encourage collaboration as the norm.

Having worked in the Indian real estate sector for close to two decades with the best and the biggest in Asia-Pacific, I have seen the winners bringing change in the leadership style practiced by them.? Leadership styles are one of the most studied topics in the recent times; it ?s hard to have one shoe fits all approach in the case of leadership style. However the basics need to be present, and the individual leader can fine-tune the style to match the circumstances and the business needs. From my experience the 21st Century leaders are more likely to be successful if they possess the following skills and attributes:

1.??? Curious learners by nature. They should maintain an attitude that says, ? What can we learn here?? versus ? What?s wrong here, and who?s to blame??

2.??? Relationship focused. They demonstrate an orientation toward ? people ? versus ? things ? and a genuine interest in others? success.

3.??? Experienced and credible in the business but not stuck in their ways. Their track record is one of results and innovation

4.??? Emotionally intelligent. They display a mature, even ? handed approach in their dealings with others.

5.??? Process and outcome focused. They have shown their ability to keep self and team on track and motivated.

6.??? Able to give positive and constructive feedback. They are good observers and use objective data to encourage positive behaviors and address behaviors that need work.

7.??? Able to teach and coach others to perform their best. They have supported and interested teams and individuals in problem-solving.

8.??? Adept at giving recognition. They have provided recognition formally and informally in a way that is appreciated and motivates continued success.

9.??? Exceptional communicators and listeners. They have demonstrated skill in communicating face ? to ? face as well as virtually and to groups as well as one- to- one.

Hopefully, you will find the leadership gleaning?s as mentioned earlier to be helpful in your journey to greatness.

Jappreet Sethi