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My Personal Leadership Philosophy

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Published: Mar 14, 2024

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Developing a Personal Leadership Philosophy

This essay about the ethos of leadership explores its multifaceted nature, emphasizing influence, ethics, growth, vision, and adaptability as integral components. It highlights leadership as a force for inspiring and guiding collective efforts toward shared goals, grounded in ethical principles and a commitment to personal and professional development. By embodying these facets, leaders can foster environments conducive to realizing both organizational objectives and the potential of individual team members.

How it works

The ethos of leadership goes into a vast and intricate domain, where myriad theories and methodologies intersect with individual values and organizational objectives. Fundamentally, this ethos revolves around comprehending leadership not merely as a position of authority, but as a pivotal force in the efficacy and welfare of a collective. A profound exploration of this ethos reveals leadership to be both an art and a science, necessitating a fusion of inherent attributes and acquired competencies to steer others towards shared goals.

Primarily, the ethos of leadership pivots on the notion of influence. Unlike conventional conceptions of power, which may connote coercion, leadership influence entails inspiring and motivating others without overt imposition of authority. This form of influence is best attained through leading by example, embodying the values the leader aspires to instill within their team. For instance, a leader who values transparency and integrity will candidly address challenges and decisions, thereby fostering an ethos of trust and candid communication within the team.

Moreover, ethical leadership assumes a pivotal role in the ethos of leadership. This facet underscores the moral imperatives incumbent upon a leader towards their followers and the broader repercussions of their decisions. An ethical leader contemplates the ramifications of their actions not only on the success of their organization but also on the well-being of their employees and societal welfare. Such leaders espouse principles of fairness, equity, and justice, endeavoring to make decisions that align with these values even amidst adversarial circumstances.

Another salient aspect of leadership ethos is the dedication to personal and professional development. Effective leaders acknowledge that, akin to their team, they are perpetual works in progress. This awareness impels them to perpetually seek fresh knowledge, interrogate their assumptions, and solicit feedback. This growth-oriented mindset not only enriches their own capacities but also sets a potent precedent for their team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability.

Furthermore, the ethos of leadership also encompasses a forward-looking vision. A leader endowed with a lucid and compelling vision can articulate the trajectory and ethos of the group or organization. This vision engenders a sense of purpose and orientation, serving as a lodestar for all team endeavors and strategies. Crafting and communicating this vision mandates not only creativity and perspicacity but also an intimate comprehension of the organization’s capabilities and the external milieu in which it operates.

Adaptive leadership emerges as yet another indispensable constituent, particularly in today’s volatile and mercurial milieu. Leaders must adeptly navigate through fluxes and uncertainties, making decisions amid incomplete information and often recalibrating strategies as circumstances metamorphose. This adaptive prowess transcends mere reactionary responses to changes; it encompasses anticipatory measures and capacitates the organization to confront impending challenges with alacrity.

In essence, the ethos of leadership transcends the rudiments of managing personnel and projects. It entails inspiring and influencing others, upholding ethical precepts, committing to perpetual growth, envisioning an auspicious future, and adapting to change. A leader who espouses these facets can not only realize organizational objectives but also foster the personal and professional evolution of their team members.

To conclude, apprehending and embodying the ethos of leadership can revolutionize conventional paradigms of leadership roles. By prioritizing influence, ethics, growth, vision, and adaptability, leaders can nurture an ambiance wherein individuals are galvanized to realize their utmost potential, guided by values and a lucid sense of purpose. Such leadership not only engenders success but also nurtures a milieu of reverence, innovation, and fortitude.

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Developing a leadership philosophy will help you become a better and more effective leader . There are several main leadership philosophies that most people follow to determine their leadership style. You might know of these leadership philosophies and decide to model your leadership off of them, or you naturally developed your leadership style, and it matches one of these methods.

No matter what stage of your career you’re in, what industry you’re in, or what your career goals are, knowing the leadership philosophy you follow is an important tool. In this article, we’ll go over how to develop a leadership philosophy, provide leadership philosophy examples, as well as some tips to keep in mind when writing your philosophy.

Key Takeaways:

A leadership philosophy depends on your personal values as well as environmental factors

Clarifying your leadership philosophy will make you a better leader.

Leadership philosophy examples include: solution-based leadership, democratic leadership, and transactional leadership.

To develop your leadership philosophy consider how you work currently, what your goals are, and examine leaders you admire.

What is a leadership philosophy?

How to develop a leadership philosophy, leadership philosophy examples, examples of personal leadership philosophies, why should you review examples of leadership philosophies, leadership philosophy faq.

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Leadership philosophies are based on several things, including character, beliefs, emotions, and principles. To create an outline of how someone acts as a leader, you can follow a leadership principle on a personal level, referring to how you are as a leader. This can also be mandated on a company or organizational level, meaning an organization encourages employees to lead in a certain way.

Leadership has different ways of approaching and tackling different situations. Each person views it differently and acts as a leader in different ways. Using leadership philosophies is a way to distill those differences and make sense of the ways people can act as leaders.

Though it seems technical or advanced, leadership philosophies are more like guidelines than rules set in stone. You can relate to multiple leadership styles and switch up your leadership since the philosophies don’t have to be adhered to. Think of it as a way to classify types of leadership and a method to help you frame how you approach leadership.

While they’re not formalized in nature, you should take time to consider your leadership philosophy and write it down. Sometimes a potential employer will ask to know your leadership philosophy, but it’s still mainly a tool for you. Taking the time to sit down, think, and write about your take on leadership can prepare you for tackling a leadership role in the future.

You can use it as a reference when you need to figure out how to approach a challenging leadership problem .

To develop a leadership philosophy, you should first figure out your leadership style, think about how you work currently, and think about what you want your future to be. Below is a more detailed list of how to develop a leadership style.

Find your leadership style. Along with leadership philosophies, leadership styles are important in understanding how you lead.

Think about how you work currently. To start, you should consider how you lead presently or how you’ve led in the past. Your most effective leadership philosophy will be one that feels natural to you, so starting with what you already do is a great start.

Think about your future. How do you want to be perceived as a leader? Thinking about the future of your leadership and skills is a good way to get on a path that will lead you there. Consider how you would like to lead in the future and how you want to work with your team.

Talk with other leaders. Getting advice from other leaders is a great way to think about your leadership values. Ask them about how they lead and what general principles they bring to all of their leadership roles .

Consider your goals . Think about where you want to be in the future and how you can get there. Your leadership goals should fall in line with your broader career and life goals, so make sure everything is consistent.

Think about your personal values. At the end of the day, leadership philosophies are extremely personal and reflect who you are. Turning to your values is a good way to incorporate your beliefs into the way you lead others.

Find leaders you admire. Just like looking at leadership philosophies can help you determine your personal perspective. Looking at the leadership styles of leaders you admire can help you find what you like.

Some examples of leadership examples include solution-based leadership and democratic leadership. You can deviate from these and develop something new, or you can choose to incorporate elements of one or a few in your personal statement .

There’s no wrong way to lead, and these are just a few common examples of leadership philosophies:

Solution-based leadership. You can look at a challenge as a problem or an opportunity to find a great solution . People who see it the second way can be solution-based leaders who look for good solutions instead of worrying about the problem at hand.

Democratic leadership. If you believe in hearing every voice in the room, democratic leadership might be for you. As the leader, you can consult everyone and weigh their opinions equally before making a decision. But, since you’re in charge, you can ultimately decide the next step.

Transformational leadership. Setting goals, finding paths to success, and working collaboratively with a team are central to transformational leadership. These leaders want to help their team grow and evolve as everyone works together.

Learning leadership. Some people like to approach leadership as an opportunity to learn. Instead of acting like a leader who got there because of their existing knowledge, they approach every situation as a chance to learn more and expand their horizons.

Laissez-faire leadership. If you like being hands-off and leaving people to do what they do best, laissez-faire leadership might be your style. Typically, these leaders act as a final “okay” or a resource for help when team members get stuck, but they don’t hover or force people to do things their way.

Transactional leadership. Sometimes people work harder when they know they’ll get something good in the end. This is the basis for transactional leadership, which uses rewards to motivate people to work toward a common goal. Think of things like bonuses , promotions, raises , and other rewards for employees who contribute to a project or goal.

Autocratic leadership. Almost the opposite of laissez-faire leadership is autocratic leadership, where the leader wants to oversee most, if not all, of a team’s work. People who are control freaks tend toward this style, but that’s not a bad thing.

Take a look over these personal leadership philosophy examples to see which one resonates with you the most. Note that your personal leadership style doesn’t have to adhere to the exact language of these examples. Instead, use them as inspiration for writing your own leadership philosophy.

Solutions-based leadership philosophy example

Challenges at work represent new opportunities for growth and development. I consider the long-term goals of our company and team, then reverse-engineer a plan for how to get there. I look forward to solving problems together by applying our collective knowledge.

Democratic leadership philosophy example

While it’s important to have clear guidelines and definitive goals, I believe that everyone on my team should have a voice in determining those guidelines and goals. Furthermore, I encourage a diversity of opinions on any topic and think that the best results come from people who have a say on what they’re working on and how they work on it.

Transformational leadership philosophy example

Failure to evolve leads to stagnation and eventually depreciation. New ideas are the life blood success. I motivate my team members with long-shot goal setting to encourage a belief in radical transformation. Additionally, I commit myself to providing the necessary tools and time to allow for my team to grow their skill sets.

Learning leadership philosophy example

Being a leader means being a jack-of-all-trades who can adapt quickly to new ideas. I approach new challenges as exciting opportunities to expand the skill set of my team and myself. I encourage my employees to explore extra learning opportunities outside of their normal responsibilities and provide resources for them to do so.

Laissez-faire leadership philosophy example

I trust my team to know how to do their jobs correctly. They’re experts who make great decisions and can solve problems on their own. I like to set big-picture goals and provide a vision that everyone can get behind, but I stay out of the way when it’s time for tasks to be carried out.

Transactional leadership philosophy example

My team responds to financial incentives more than anything else, so I use bonuses, commissions, raises, and promotions to motivate my team to success. I foster a competitive spirit that pushes everyone to reach for their highest potential. Finally, I make sure that the metrics I institute make sense and incentivize the right sort of behavior.

Autocratic leadership philosophy example

Decision-making takes too long and ends up with soft, difficult-to-apply polices when too many people are involved. I will make all of the important decisions and delegate a handful of other key stakeholders as decision-makers as well. Most employees will have to follow our examples and guidelines and trust that we’ll lead them to a successful outcome.

Reviewing examples of leadership philosophies will not only will you better understand the format of leadership philosophies when you review examples, but you’ll also get a chance to see how other people see leadership. You might find points you agree with or some that you hate, and they’re all valuable.

You can choose to model your personal philosophy after others or decide that you want to do the opposite of what someone else did.

Having access to other people’s leadership philosophies can help you formulate your own better than if you were on your own. Taking inspiration from others can help you decide how you want to be as a leader. It’s like thinking back to a leader you admire and trying to capture what you love about them in your own leadership style.

This doesn’t mean you should take your leadership style from someone else. It’s actually the opposite. You should strive to create a unique leadership philosophy that feels like your own, but of course, you can take inspiration from other people.

Why is a leadership philosophy important?

A leadership philosophy is important because it clarifies the objectives of a leader. A leadership philosophy is a framework which you can build off of. This helps provide consistency, that is a huge factor in good leadership. Knowing your leadership philosophy can also help during difficult times, especially in situations where you may need to either adjust or reinforce your leadership style.

What makes a good leader philosophy?

Regardless of philosophy, a good leader will help everyone produce their best work possible. To do this, a good leader must combine the skills of delegation, communication, structure, vision, decision-making, empathy, and inspiration. All of these skills combine to make a leader who can move their team to success.

Do I need a leadership philosophy?

Yes, if you are a leader, you should have a leadership philosophy. Not only will the philosophy provide you with direction or allow you to answer leadership-based interview questions , but it will also give you a great way to communicate with your team. By knowing your philosophy you can set clear goals and expectations.

What does a leadership philosophy look like?

A leadership philosophy is a belief system that helps guide your decision-making. Since leadership has different ways of approaching and tackling different situations, leadership philosophies will help people use their own personal viewpoints to lead. They are more like guidelines than a set of rules you have to follow.

PennState Extension – Tips for Developing a Personal leadership Philosophy

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What is your Leadership Philosophy? Guide & Examples in 2024

I recently read that we may be facing a crisis in leadership quality.

The DDI's 2023 Global Leadership Forecast shows that we're facing the lowest point of leadership quality in a decade. 

Only 40% of those surveyed said their company had high-quality leaders. 

At the same time, Paul Michelman, the Editor-in-chief of MIT Sloan Management Review, said , “The world does not lack for management ideas.” 

Thousands of books and articles tell you how to become a good leader.

But to be a good leader, you’ll need more than external guidance; you also need to search inside yourself. 

Having a leadership philosophy can help with this. 

Let’s start by understanding the concept.

What is Leadership Philosophy?

There are many ways to define leadership philosophy. 

I love how George Ambler, a former Senior Executive Partner with Gartner Executive Programs, describes it: “a set of beliefs, values, and principles that strongly influences how we interpret reality and guide our understanding of influencing humans.” 

“Leadership philosophy is a set of beliefs, values, and principles that strongly influences how we interpret reality and guide our understanding of influencing humans. It’s our philosophy, our understanding, and interpretation of leadership, that affects how we react to people, events, and situations around us.” - George Ambler, former Senior Executive Partner with Gartner Executive Programs.

A leadership philosophy is the guidance you give yourself on how to be a good leader. 

Writing a leadership philosophy helps you reflect on your values and the leader you want to become. 

When complete, the philosophy will be the compass for your decision-making as a leader. 

With that in mind, in this article, I will share the benefits of having a leadership philosophy and how to write one for yourself, with complete guides and examples!

Why is it Important to Have a Leadership Philosophy?

For the Leader

Having a leadership philosophy is helpful for any leader for several key reasons:

• A chance to reflect: To write a leadership philosophy, you will need to take the time to sit down and think hard about what truly matters to you as a leader.
• Guide decision-making: When facing difficult choices, having a leadership philosophy written down will help you make decisions that align with your values.
• Job promotion: When you can clearly state your leadership values with your management (and, of course, act accordingly!), there's a higher chance that they'll find you capable of a higher position (This even applies to people who want to become first-time managers ).

For the Team

A team will always benefit from a conscious and consistent leader with clear values and goals:

• Build trust: Leaders who can merge their personal values with their professional role receive greater trust from their team members. This is especially important in remote and hybrid work, where building team connections is often challenging .
• Deliver better results: Because trust is the foundation of great team collaboration, communication, and team dynamics .

The Difference between a Leadership Philosophy and Leadership Styles

Leadership styles are a well-studied subject, and you probably have come across or identified yourself with some of the most common leadership styles , such as authoritarian, democratic, laissez-faire, or transactional.

On the other hand, a leadership philosophy should be highly personalized . There are no categories to choose from, and you write your own leadership manifesto.

While leadership styles describe how a leader makes decisions and delegates tasks, a leadership philosophy tells you its owner's values, beliefs, and goals.

But with all those differences, there is one thing they have in common:

Both leadership styles and philosophies are fluid and change over time as the leader grows. 

Essential Components of Leadership Philosophy (+ Template)

If you're new to leadership philosophies and don't know where to start, below are some suggested components:

• Your definition of leadership
• Your core values in making decisions
• Your core values in managing people

When putting these components together, we can have a template like this:

As a leadership philosophy should be personalized to each person, I encourage you to customize the template as much as you want until it truly feels authentic to you!

If you don’t know how to fill out the blanks in the template, no worries. (For inspiration, consider visiting one of the top 2024 leadership conferences .)

In the next section, I will guide you in reflecting on your leadership journey and developing your ideas for your first leadership philosophy!

10 Steps to Write Your Own Leadership Philosophy Statement

The first three steps will help you reflect on your leadership values:

1. Think about the leaders in your life

Sometimes, it's easier to look into another person's behaviors than ourselves, so as a warm-up, think about the leaders you have encountered in your life. 

Some leaders you met may have positively influenced you:

• Who is a leader you admire? 
• What about them that inspires you?

Others may show you how not to be a leader:

• What is a negative experience you had with another leader?
• If you were them, what would you do differently? 

Try to note your answers to the above questions before moving to the next steps!

2. Reflect on your three developmental points

There are major events in our lives that shape who we are, our beliefs, and our values. So, in the next step, let's write down your defining moments in life, including:

• Two lows: Two significant challenges you have gone through.
• One high: A positive experience you hold close to your heart.

For each of these moments, think about how they have:

• Changed you as a person
• Influenced your leadership 

3. Vision the leader the future world needs

A leadership philosophy is not just about your past and present but also about your future. This makes it worth wondering, “What types of leaders does the future world need?”

In his insightful book Leading in the Digital World: How to Foster Creativity, Collaboration and Inclusivity , Dr. Amit Mukherjee points out the key attributes of a future Leader of Creativity:

• Have strong ethical principles
• Value knowledge, imagination, and fast learning
• A contributing member of creative efforts, not a facilitator
• Inclusive and empathetic
• Embrace different opinions
• Let information flow freely through their network
• Provide psychological safety to their team members

If you're a leader of a hybrid or remote team building a digital product, you may find the above characteristics highly relevant to you. 

So, which ones would you emphasize in your leadership philosophy?

Steps 4 to 7 will guide you to come up with the answers for the blanks in our leadership philosophy template:

4. Define leadership in your own words

The first sentence of your leadership philosophy is your definition of leadership. What does it mean to lead? 

The answer may depend on your leadership style:

• For democratic leaders , you may think leading is to guide your team members to a common goal by listening to and combining everyone's perspectives.
• For transformational leaders , you may consider leadership as motivating and inspiring your team members to achieve their full potential.
• For delegative leaders , you may think to be a leader is to trust your people to do their best work and let the group make decisions without much involvement. 

5. What are the achievements you want to be remembered for?

Amit's book states that the average manager spends two or three years in each position, with the 2022 US Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting up to 6 years.

What achievements do you want people to remember about you after those years? 

What are the goals you want to achieve as a leader?

These goals can be work-related, such as:

• Leading the team to achieve a certain KPI ( key performance indicators )
• Restructuring the team in a way that makes it more efficient

Or they can be more people-oriented, like:

• Upgrading the skills of all team members
• Building a positive team dynamics

6. Your core values when making decisions:

No matter how new your company's product or service is, you're impacting others' lives through your product or service. 

You want to ensure you always have the correct guiding principles when making decisions. 

What are your core values that relate to your team's product or service?

They can be:

• Honesty: To always tell the truth to your customers
• Inclusivity: To design for disadvantaged minorities
• Curiosity: To always learn new things and question what you have known
• Responsibility: To build products that genuinely do good for people and for the planet
• And many more!

List of Core Value Words

7. Your core values when managing people

Now, let's turn towards your team:

What are the fundamentals of creating an effective relationship with your team? 

For example, you may say:

• Respect: To treat your team members the way you want to be treated
• Care: To show that you care beyond words and make decisions with compassion 
• The belief in the best in people: To forgive your people and not hold on to their mistakes

Here is an example of more management values .

After you have a draft of your leadership philosophy, you can go to the last three steps:

8. Seek feedback

No matter how well we know ourselves, there will be things we can't be completely objective about.

Before you complete your leadership philosophy, send it to your mentors, close friends, or team members for input.

The feedback may not be easy to read, but it will improve your philosophy.

Remember that you don't have to change everything according to people's feedback. After all, this is your philosophy.

9. Perfect your leadership philosophy and share it with your team 

You can keep your leadership philosophy private, but sharing it with the team offers great benefits:

• Firstly, you create a better understanding between you and your team members.
• Secondly, your team may find you more authentic and trustworthy .
• Thirdly, your people can remind you to act according to your words. 

Before you share your leadership philosophy with the team, check the common issues below:

• Using too many buzzwords may be deemed insincere.
• Be aware of the current atmosphere within the team to ensure you share at a suitable time.
• Be careful when using phrases like “I promise to” because many things may not be within your control.
• Ask yourself what you want your people to think and feel after reading your leadership philosophy.

10. Review and revise from time to time

Your leadership philosophy is alive and constantly changing, just as you are!

So look back at your philosophy occasionally and edit it over time.

To give you more guidance, take a look at the leadership philosophy examples below:

Leadership Philosophy Examples

Below are three leadership philosophies examples based on our template.

Please note that we keep the goal part of these philosophy examples general as it depends on you and your team’s vision.

A remote manager of a startup

In this leadership philosophy example, we see a startup manager forming their personal leadership philosophy.

As a startup manager, you may want to emphasize the design thinking process: ideation, prototyping, and feedback.

Besides, to develop a unique product, your core values may include words like “curiosity” and “originality.” 

I believe to be a leader is to inspire my people to do their best work and assist them along the way.  My goals are to achieve unconventional ideation, rapid prototyping, and a fast feedback loop with my team.  On the journey to accomplish those goals, I believe curiosity, social responsibility, and originality should be the guiding principles for my decisions.  Most importantly, I want to always treat my people with understanding, respect, and trust.

A fully remote manager of a tech company

In this leadership philosophy example, a remote manager contemplates how they want to support their team from a distance.

Since team communication and collaboration are often the challenges of hybrid and remote teams, you can make them the focus of your leadership philosophy.

I believe to be a leader is to ensure my people know how to do their jobs well and that they can grow while doing it. My goals are to achieve seamless collaboration, great team dynamics, and high-quality work outcomes with my team.  On the journey to accomplish those goals, I believe honesty, inclusivity, and creating real value should be the guiding principles for my decisions.  Most importantly, I want to treat my people with kindness, cultural sensitivity, and respect at all times.

Manager for creativity in building a digital product

Is your goal to foster creativity in your organization?

Then, you may find this example, inspired by the book Leading in the Digital World: How to Foster Creativity, Collaboration and Inclusivity , helpful.

I believe to be a leader is to maximize the creative capacity of my team to build a responsible and competitive digital product.  My goals are to achieve a fast flow of exchanged information, a pool of diverse perspectives, and high productivity together with my team.  On the journey to accomplish those goals, I believe ethical values, an emphasis on speed, and continuous learning should be the guiding principles for my decisions.  Most importantly, I want to treat my people with inclusivity, empathy, and respect at all times.

Write Your Own Leadership Philosophy

Having a leadership philosophy will remind you of the leader you aspire to be and guide you when making difficult decisions.

Our world is constantly evolving, and more research tells leaders what they should be every day.

Still, having a clear philosophy about good leadership will help you stay calm and determined in the sea of information.

more research tells leaders what they should be every day

As Donald McGannon said, "Leadership is not a position or a title. It is action and example." I fully agree.

Leadership Philosophy: Frequently Asked Questions

What is a leadership philosophy.

A leadership philosophy is a set of beliefs, values, and principles that influence how a leader interprets reality and guides their interactions with others.

It acts as a personal manifesto for making decisions and leading people, reflecting the leader's vision, goals, and core values in both decision-making and people management.

Why is having a leadership philosophy important?

For leaders, it allows them to reflect on their values, guides decision-making, and can assist in career progression.

It ensures consistent and value-driven leadership for teams, fostering trust and improving performance.

How does a leadership philosophy differ from leadership styles?

While leadership styles focus on how leaders delegate and make decisions, a leadership philosophy is deeply personal, outlining a leader's values, beliefs, and goals.

It's more about the leader's inner guiding principles than their outward managerial methods.

What are the essential components of a leadership philosophy?

Key components include a personal definition of leadership, the leader's goals, core values for decision-making and managing people, and any additional principles that guide their leadership approach.

How can I write my own leadership philosophy?

Follow these steps to write your leadership philosophy:

• Begin by reflecting on influential leaders in your life, your personal experiences, and the kind of leader the future world needs.
• Define your leadership in your own words, outline your goals, and identify your core values in decision-making and people management.
• Customize a template to fit your authentic self, seek feedback, and be willing to revise your philosophy over time.

How often should I review and revise my leadership philosophy?

Leadership philosophies should evolve as you grow as a leader.

Regularly reviewing and updating it ensures that it remains aligned with your current beliefs, values, and your team's and organization's needs.

Can I share my leadership philosophy with my team?

Sharing your leadership philosophy with your team can enhance understanding, authenticity, and trust.

It allows your team to align with your values and reminds you to act according to your principles.

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Leadership Philosophy and the Theories of Leadership Research Paper

Introduction, the philosophy of leadership, leadership philosophy chosen, the ‘golden rule’ leadership philosophy and the trait theory of leadership, the ‘golden rule’ leadership philosophy and the behavioral theory of leadership, the ‘golden rule’ leadership philosophy and the contingency theory of leadership.

Leadership, as a concept, varies in many different situations and circumstances. As old as life itself, leadership is required in many aspects of human existence. The emergence of different civilizations, and the resultant organized societies and governments brought forth with them an urgent need to examine the concept of leadership.

Leadership was required in homes, in various communal groupings, and in the overall governorship of societies. Today, the need for competent leadership within various groups and entities in the society is even more acute (Kim, McInerney, & Sikula, 2004, p.388). Effective leadership in homes, schools, workplace, and governance play a critical role in the overall socioeconomic progress of a nation.

Philosophy analyses the existence, mannerisms, and conduct of human beings in their daily pursuits. For leaders, the acquisition of a personal leadership philosophy is of critical importance. A philosophy of leadership provides a general frame and guideline within which a leader may function.

A leadership philosophy also offers a point of reference for the leader, and when practiced long enough, it forms the basis of the entire leader’s actions naturally. Therefore, a positive and progressive leadership philosophy is beneficial to the leader and the persons under his/her leadership.

The leadership philosophy that I have chosen is one that adopts the golden rule/principle. This leadership philosophy/principle obliges the leader to treat his or her subjects, as the leader himself would wish to be treated were he/her the subject – the golden rule.

This philosophy mandates the leader to take actions only after placing the best interests of the subjects at the heart. All the decisions made by the leader should be humane and progressive. This philosophy ties positively with three different leadership theories. These theories are the trait theory of leadership, behavioral theory of leadership, and the contingency theory of leadership.

The trait leadership theory states that a leader has inherent characteristics and personal traits that he or she is born with. This theory slightly reassembles the ‘great man’ leadership theory that characterized much of the ancient Greek and Roman view of leadership and leaders. The trait theory of leadership views leadership as a concept and characteristic inherent in some people and absent in others (Northouse, 2008, p.15).

Many leaders in history have been described as ‘born leaders’, and their actions and choices during times of crisis were mostly guided by empathy and inherent characteristics. For Instance, Abraham Lincoln, the 16th US president, has variously been described as compassionate and full of empathy. Despite having been the president during the nations’ most catastrophic civil war before or since, his leadership – born out of his personality traits – has always been described as compassionate.

In line with the chosen personal leadership philosophy that urges the leader to show empathy, the trait theory of leadership applies to Abraham Lincoln. His abhorrence for the institution of slavery stemmed from his conviction that as much as none would volunteer to be a slave, then none should willfully be a master.

This conviction is born out of empathy. The conviction aligns with the earlier mentioned philosophy of the leader placing herself or himself in the situation of his subjects before making any decisions. As president, Abraham Lincoln was also quick in granting mercy to many citizens who sought it from him. President Lincoln granted mercy to many Southerners condemned to death for treasonous acts during the Civil War.

At the conclusion of the war, many Northerners wanted to subdue the Southerners economically and politically, because the prevalent view in the north was that the south had instigated the entire costly war. True to his element and character, President Lincoln cautioned against vengeful feelings and actions by Northerners. He urged the nation to foster a new sense of goodwill and empathy.

Therefore, the leadership philosophy based on empathy is quite effective and admirable. When a leader put the interest of his/her subjects first, the subjects gain confidence in his or her leadership.

The behavioral theory of leadership contrasts with the trait theory of leadership. While the trait theory states that leaders posses, within themselves, inherent character traits that are appropriate for leadership, the behavioral theory states that leadership is a concept that can be learned and acquired. Through careful observation, intensive learning phases, and experiences acquired over time, a person previously not disposed to leadership, can become en effective leader.

Indeed many leaders are molded through practice and learning. Throughout the ancient times, many princes destined to succeed their fathers as kings were taught how to be leaders and were continuously in a learning realm until they assumed the kingship upon the death or resignation of the king. The behavioral theory states that a leader’s actions are more salient and take precedence over his or her inherent traits.

The British Prime Minister, before and during the Second World War, is an example of a leader whose actions were the prime determinants of his effective leadership during the War.

Hardly known for his suave nature or even for his empathy, Sir Winston Churchill was nonetheless effective in rallying the British troops and public behind Britain’s war effort against Germany and its allies. Churchill was hardly popular in Britain before the War and had served in various junior capacities at various levels of government. He had tasted a bit of war during the First World War, and his experiences would prove beneficial.

Furthermore, in his various roles, in the civil service, he also slowly honed his leadership skills. Therefore, when Prime Minister, Neville Chamberlain, abruptly resigned, Churchill was suddenly entrusted with the heavy burden of leading Britain in the War. Fortunately, Churchill had already learned as much as he needed to on being a leader, and would continue to learn as the war progressed.

The golden rule of leadership exalts the leader to place the interests of his subjects first, and the Prime Minister, Churchill, did so. His fierce sense of independence and love for democracy guided his determined ambitions to halt the advance of Germany despite formidable odds. In the end, Britain and her allies triumphed, and in large part, this victory was the result of effective leadership by Churchill, whose leadership skills were slowly built over a long period.

The Contingency Theory of leadership states that leadership does not necessarily involve a leader practicing his or her inherent traits, nor is it a matter of the actions taken by a leader, but rather an ability to adopt and fit with the different dynamics that confront him or her.

Because a leader will inevitably be confronted with different situations requiring different analyses, judgments, and conclusions, the Contingency Theory of Leadership states that, an effective leader should handle these dynamics. According to this theory, the environment within which the leader operates, the socio-political inclinations of the followers, and the leadership style of the leader all play a role in determining the leader’s judgment.

The American president, Franklin Roosevelt, during the Second World War, exemplifies contingency leadership. Having taken office just as the effects of the Great Depression of the 1920s were setting in, his work was clearly cut out. However, Roosevelt’s ability to identify with the common person’s problem soon gained him widespread bipartisan popularity.

He set up measures to cushion the poor from the effects of the Great Depression, oversaw widespread infrastructural projects, and after a few years of these intensive nationwide programs, the American economy was back on track. Ultimately, he was able to rally the American public behind him as the US entered the Second World War in 1941. President Roosevelt is the longest serving American president in history and one of the most popular leaders in history.

Roosevelt’s capacity for empathy, in line with the doctrine of placing the concerns of the subjects first, contributed to his long reign as president. His ability to adapt to different situations and challenges in his presidency, and his knack for soliciting bipartisan support for his policies points to effective contingency leadership.

In conclusion, the personal philosophy of leadership that places the interest of the leader’s subject at the forefront is an effective leadership philosophy. As stated in this paper, the ‘Golden Rule’ leadership philosophy functions ably within the trait theory of Leadership, the Behavioral Theory of Leadership, and the Contingency Theory of leadership. As the analysis of various historical political leaders has shown, different leadership styles and traits are suitable for different environments and situations.

Kim, C. W., McInerney, M., & Sikula, A. (2004). A Model of Reasoned Responses: Use of the Golden Mean and Implications for Management Practice. Journal of Business Ethics , 51(4), 387-395.

Northouse, P.G. (2008). Leadership Theory and Practice (5 th Ed). Thousand Oaks : Sage Publications.

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Bibliography

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10 Leadership Philosophy Examples for Success

Leadership philosophy is a crucial aspect of achieving success in any field. It serves as a guiding principle that shapes your mindset and actions as a leader. By defining your leadership philosophy, you set the direction for yourself and your team, paving the way for success. In this article, we will explore 10 different leadership philosophy examples that can inspire and empower you to become a successful leader.

Understanding Leadership Philosophy

Before diving into the various examples of leadership philosophy, let's take a moment to understand what it entails. Leadership philosophy encompasses your beliefs, values, and principles that guide your leadership approach. It defines how you perceive and interact with your team , how you make decisions, and how you inspire and motivate others. Having a clear leadership philosophy is essential as it provides a solid foundation for your leadership style.

The Importance of Leadership Philosophy

An effective leadership philosophy is important for several reasons. Firstly, it provides clarity and direction for both yourself and your team. When everyone shares a common understanding of your leadership philosophy, decision-making becomes more streamlined and cohesive. Additionally, your leadership philosophy sets the tone for the organizational culture, influencing how your team members collaborate, communicate, and work towards achieving common goals .

Furthermore, having a well-defined leadership philosophy helps you stay consistent and authentic as a leader. It guides your behavior and actions, making it easier for others to trust and follow you. By exhibiting strong leadership qualities, you can inspire your team to reach new heights of success.

Core Elements of a Leadership Philosophy

While leadership philosophy is unique to each individual, there are some common core elements that can be found across different examples. These include:

• Integrity: Acting with honesty, transparency, and ethical standards
• Empathy: Understanding and considering the feelings and perspectives of others
• Accountability: Taking responsibility for your actions and decisions
• Growth mindset: Embracing continuous learning and personal development
• Collaboration: Encouraging teamwork and fostering a supportive environment
• Vision: Articulating a clear vision and inspiring others to work towards it

By incorporating these core elements into your leadership philosophy, you can create a strong framework for success.

Moreover, it is important to note that effective leadership philosophy also involves adaptability and flexibility. As a leader, you must be able to adjust your approach based on the needs and circumstances of your team. This means being open to new ideas and perspectives, and being willing to make changes when necessary.

Additionally, a successful leadership philosophy emphasizes the importance of communication. Clear and open communication is vital for building trust and fostering a positive work environment. By actively listening to your team members and providing regular feedback, you can ensure that everyone feels valued and understood.

In conclusion, understanding and developing a leadership philosophy is crucial for effective leadership. It provides a guiding framework that helps you make decisions, inspire others, and create a positive organizational culture. By incorporating core elements such as integrity, empathy, accountability, growth mindset, collaboration, and vision, you can establish a strong foundation for your leadership style. Remember, adaptability and communication are also key components of a successful leadership philosophy.

Different Types of Leadership Philosophies

Leadership philosophy comes in various forms, each with its own distinct approach and principles. Let's explore three different types of leadership philosophies:

Transformational Leadership Philosophy

Transformational leadership focuses on inspiring and motivating others to achieve their full potential. Leaders who adopt this philosophy often lead by example, setting high standards and encouraging innovation and growth. They work towards creating a positive and empowering environment, where individuals feel motivated to go above and beyond their expectations.

Transformational leaders are known for their ability to communicate a compelling vision that inspires and energizes their team members. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement and learning, these leaders empower their followers to embrace change and strive for excellence. Through their charisma and passion, transformational leaders can create a sense of shared purpose and unity among team members, driving them towards common goals.

Servant Leadership Philosophy

Servant leadership revolves around the idea that leaders exist to serve their team members. Leaders with this philosophy prioritize the needs and well-being of their team, seeking to support and empower them to reach their goals. By putting the interests of others first, servant leaders build strong relationships based on trust, respect, and collaboration.

Servant leaders often demonstrate humility and empathy in their interactions, showing genuine care and concern for the individuals under their guidance. They believe in the importance of listening to their team members, understanding their perspectives, and providing the necessary support to help them succeed. Through their selfless approach to leadership, servant leaders create a culture of inclusivity and support, where every team member feels valued and appreciated.

Authentic Leadership Philosophy

Authentic leadership emphasizes being genuine and true to oneself. Leaders who embrace this philosophy are transparent about their values, beliefs, and motivations. By leading with authenticity, they build trust and credibility with their team members, fostering an environment of open communication and mutual respect.

Authentic leaders are known for their consistency in words and actions, aligning their behavior with their core values and principles. By demonstrating integrity and honesty in their leadership style, they create a culture of trust and integrity within their teams. Authentic leaders encourage open dialogue and feedback, welcoming diverse perspectives and fostering a climate of psychological safety where team members feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment.

How Leadership Philosophies Drive Success

Your leadership philosophy plays a significant role in driving success within your team and organization. Let's explore two ways in which leadership philosophies impact success:

Influence of Leadership Philosophy on Team Performance

The leadership philosophy you adopt sets the tone for how your team operates and performs. When you have a clear and inspiring leadership philosophy, your team members are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and productive. By providing a sense of direction, support, and purpose, you can unlock their full potential, leading to improved team performance and success.

Leadership Philosophy and Organizational Culture

Your leadership philosophy also influences the overall organizational culture. When your philosophy aligns with the values and vision of the organization, it creates a positive and cohesive culture. A strong culture fosters teamwork, innovation, and collaboration, enhancing the overall success and sustainability of the organization.

Expanding on the influence of leadership philosophy on team performance, it's essential to note that different leadership styles can yield varying results. For example, a transformational leadership philosophy focuses on inspiring and motivating team members to achieve their best, often resulting in increased creativity and problem-solving abilities. On the other hand, a transactional leadership approach emphasizes clear expectations, rewards, and consequences, which can drive efficiency and task completion within the team.Moreover, the impact of leadership philosophy on team performance extends beyond day-to-day tasks. A servant leadership philosophy, which prioritizes the well-being and development of team members, can lead to higher job satisfaction, lower turnover rates, and a more positive work environment. By investing in the growth and success of individual team members, leaders following this philosophy can cultivate a loyal and high-performing team that consistently achieves success.Delving deeper into the relationship between leadership philosophy and organizational culture, it's crucial to recognize that culture is the collective personality of an organization. A leadership philosophy that values transparency, open communication, and inclusivity can foster a culture of trust and empowerment. This, in turn, can lead to increased employee engagement, a stronger sense of belonging, and a shared commitment to the organization's mission and goals. As leaders shape and embody the desired culture through their actions and decisions, they set the foundation for long-term success and sustainability.

Developing Your Own Leadership Philosophy

Now that we have explored various examples of leadership philosophies, it's time to reflect on developing your own. Here are two essential steps to consider:

Reflecting on Your Leadership Style

Take some time to reflect on your leadership style and consider what values and principles are important to you. What strengths do you bring to the table? How can you improve as a leader? By reflecting on these questions, you can gain insights into what drives and motivates you as a leader.

Aligning Your Philosophy with Your Goals

Once you have a clear understanding of your leadership style, align it with your goals and aspirations. Consider how your philosophy can help you achieve your desired outcomes and create a positive impact on your team and organization. By aligning your philosophy with your goals, you can create a strong foundation for success.

Implementing Leadership Philosophy in Practice

Having a well-defined leadership philosophy is just the beginning. To truly drive success, it is important to implement and communicate your philosophy effectively. Let's explore two important aspects of implementing your leadership philosophy:

Communicating Your Leadership Philosophy

Communication is key when it comes to implementing your leadership philosophy. Clearly articulate your philosophy to your team members, ensuring they understand the core principles and values you stand for. Through open and transparent communication, you can establish trust, inspire others, and foster a shared sense of purpose and direction.

Adapting Your Leadership Philosophy Over Time

As a leader, it is important to remain flexible and adaptable. Your leadership philosophy may evolve and change over time as you learn, grow, and gain new experiences. Stay open to feedback and be willing to adjust your philosophy as needed. By adapting your philosophy, you can continue to drive success and maintain relevance in an ever-changing world.

In conclusion, leadership philosophy is a powerful tool for success. By understanding different examples and developing your own philosophy, you can become a more effective and inspiring leader. Remember, leadership is not just about achieving success for yourself, but also about empowering and inspiring others to reach their full potential. Embrace your leadership philosophy and lead with passion, empathy, and authenticity, and watch as success follows.

At Candor, we're dedicated to helping you and your team cultivate a culture that feels like home—a place where work feels like play because you're surrounded by a team that supports and invests in its culture. Embracing your leadership philosophy is just the beginning. To truly make a difference, it's about bringing authenticity to the table and engaging in day-to-day exercises that build a democratic culture, co-owned by every member of your team. Ready to transform your team's dynamic and find your happy at work? Sign up for Free and start shaping a future where teams are collaborative, authentic, and celebrate success together.

Connect and engage with your teammates

Candor makes it easy to connect and have fun with your teammates, even while you’re remote. Use Candor to do feedback, shoutouts, check-ins, and more, all in one place.

Leadership Philosophy: Examples and Tips for Developing Your Own

Leadership philosophy is the guiding set of principles and beliefs that shape a leader’s approach and behavior in their role. It serves as a compass, steering leaders through challenges and decisions. A strong leadership ideology not only influences the leader’s actions but also inspires and motivates those around them. However, examples of leadership philosophies vary widely, as each leader has their own unique beliefs and ways of thinking. Some may prioritize transparency, collaboration, and empowerment, while others may emphasize innovation, accountability, and resilience. This piece of writing will explain everything you need to know about leadership philosophy including leadership philosophy examples and tips for developing a personal leadership ideology.

What is a Leadership Philosophy?

A leadership philosophy is a foundational framework similar to a strategic guidebook that guides a leader in their professional journey. It is a set of principles and values that describe a leader’s way of working. It functions as a compass, providing direction and coherence to decision-making processes. Basically, a leadership philosophy reflects the most important ideas that guide how a leader works with their team.

Developing a leadership ideology means thinking about your own values, what you’ve been through, and how you naturally lead. This helps you decide the best way to guide and motivate others. It affects how you talk to your team, make choices, keep them motivated, and deal with problems. A well-defined leadership philosophy helps leaders stay true to their core values, communicate effectively with their team members, and inspire others to achieve common goals.

Finally, a leadership philosophy is a set of beliefs, values, and principles that guide a leader’s behavior and decision-making process. It is an essential tool for shaping organizational culture and driving success in any leadership role.

8 Leadership Philosophy Examples

Leadership comes in various shapes and styles, and understanding different leadership philosophies can be significant in sharpening one’s own approach. Leadership philosophy examples include democratic leadership, autocratic leadership, laissez-faire leadership, managerial leadership, strategic leadership, transformational leadership, transactional leadership and participative leadership. Let’s dive deeper into them, each with its unique characteristics:

1. Democratic Leadership Philosophy

In the democratic leadership model, decisions are a collaborative endeavor. This approach values the input of team members, creating an environment where diverse perspectives contribute to decision-making. Democratic leadership promotes inclusivity, enhancing team engagement and cohesion. This style often results in motivated teams, driven by a sense of ownership and shared responsibility.

2. Autocratic Leadership Philosophy

Autocratic leadership centers decision-making authority in the hands of a single leader. Decisions are made independently, ensuring a streamlined process. Although autocratic leadership can be helpful in fast decision-making, it might lower team involvement and restrict creative contributions. It is a pragmatic approach in scenarios where clear directives are imperative.

3. Laissez-faire Leadership Philosophy

The laissez-faire approach accepts a hands-off style, granting team members significant autonomy. This philosophy encourages creativity and individual initiative but demands a highly skilled and self-motivated team. Laissez-faire leadership, when executed effectively, can create a culture of self-responsibility and innovation within the team.

4. Managerial Leadership Philosophy

Managerial leadership emphasises organizational structure, resource efficiency, and systematic coordination. This approach also ensures accountability and optimization, providing a well-structured framework for the team to achieve organizational goals. It is particularly effective in scenarios demanding streamlined processes and clear directives.

5. Strategic Leadership Philosophy

Strategic leaders focus on long-term vision and planning, aligning organizational strategies with evolving circumstances. Moreover, this approach focuses on being flexible and thinking ahead. It focuses on long-term success by trying to predict and adjust to external changes. Strategic leadership is crucial for organizations navigating complex and dynamic landscapes.

6. Transformational Leadership Philosophy

Transformational leaders inspire and motivate team members to surpass perceived limitations. This philosophy encourages innovation, personal growth, and a positive organizational culture. Additionally, transformational leadership creates an environment where team members feel empowered to contribute their best, driving creativity and a shared commitment to organizational goals. It is particularly effective in growing a culture of continuous improvement.

7. Transactional Leadership Philosophy

Transactional leaders operate on a system of rewards and punishments tied to predefined expectations and performance metrics. This structured approach ensures clarity in roles and expectations, promoting accountability and adherence to established standards. Transactional leadership is effective in situations where clear guidelines are necessary for task accomplishment.

8. Participative Leadership Philosophy

Participative leaders involve team members in decision-making processes, valuing shared responsibility. Collaboration is fundamental to problem-solving and goal-setting. Therefore, this philosophy enhances team engagement by giving members a sense of ownership in the decision-making process. It fosters increased commitment, collaboration, and a cohesive team environment.

12 Tips for Developing a Personal Leadership Philosophy

Developing a personal leadership philosophy requires profound self-analysis and strategic planning. Here are 12 helpful ideas to get you started building a strong and inspiring leadership philosophy that fits your values and helps you achieve lasting success:

1. Reflect on Your Values

Initiate this transformative process by engaging in a reflective examination of your core values. Dive deep into the principles that define your moral and ethical compass. Consider the ethical underpinnings that guide your decision-making as a leader, ensuring alignment with your personal beliefs.

2. Assess Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Undertake a comprehensive self-assessment, not only to identify your strengths and areas for growth but also to understand the spirit of your leadership style. Recognize the distinctive qualities that set you apart as a leader and confront your vulnerabilities with a genuine commitment to personal and professional development.

3. Set Short-Term and Long-Term Goals

Uplift your leadership aspirations by delineating clear and tangible goals for both the short and long term. Envision the transformative impact you aspire to make, not just on a day-to-day basis but as a visionary leader charting a course towards enduring success.

4. Craft a Vision Statement

Infuse your leadership philosophy with inspiration by crafting a vision statement that summarizes your profound aspirations. Look into the details of how this vision resonates with your values and the organizational culture you seek to cultivate. Envision the ripple effect your leadership will have on both individuals and the collective.

5. Identify Leadership Principles

Explore the essence of effective leadership by identifying the fundamental principles that resonate with your core values. These principles, more than mere guidelines, become the ethical foundation upon which your leadership decisions stand, shaping the very fabric of your leadership identity.

6. Apply Leadership Practices

Translate identified principles into tangible and actionable practices that permeate every facet of your leadership. From daily interactions to strategic decision-making, these practices should embody the very essence of your philosophy. Ensure a seamless integration of theory into the practical realm of your leadership.

7. Seek Feedback

Promote a culture of continuous improvement by actively seeking constructive feedback from a spectrum of sources. Welcome the diverse perspectives of peers, mentors, and team members as catalysts for refinement. This ongoing feedback loop becomes an invaluable tool for honing and evolving your leadership philosophy.

8. Commit to Lifelong Learning

Acknowledge the dynamic nature of leadership and commit unwaveringly to a journey of lifelong learning. Dive into the ever-evolving pool of ideas, trends, and best practices in leadership. This commitment ensures a perpetual state of adaptability, keeping your philosophy relevant in the face of evolving professional landscapes.

9. Lead by Example

Develop a culture of trust and accountability within your organization by consistently exemplifying the behavior and values you expect from your team. Beyond setting standards, explore the nuances of how your actions influence the organizational ethos, becoming a living testament to your leadership ideology.

10. Communicate Transparently

Grow a culture of clarity and understanding by transparently communicating your leadership philosophy to your team. Go beyond articulating expectations; dig into the foundational principles that govern your decisions. Transparency becomes the bridge between articulated philosophy and tangible workplace culture.

11. Monitor Progress

Institute a rigorous system for the periodic evaluation of your progress toward established leadership goals. Reflect not just on achievements but also on the challenges encountered. This introspective journey allows for a deeper understanding of your evolving leadership approach.

12. Be Open to Revising

Welcome a mindset of continuous improvement, acknowledging the dynamic nature of a leadership philosophy. Be open to revising it based on outcomes, experiences, and the evolving needs of your team and organization. This adaptive approach ensures the sustained relevance and effectiveness of your leadership ideology over time.

Final Thoughts

In the culmination of this exploration, we emphasize that developing a personal leadership philosophy is a dynamic journey of self-discovery and intentional growth. Your values serve as the compass, guiding ethical decisions, while acknowledging strengths and weaknesses fosters continuous improvement. Having clear goals and a vision gives you a path to follow. Turning your beliefs into actions shows that your leadership ideology makes a real difference. Welcoming feedback, committing to learning, and leading by example cultivate a culture of trust. Transparent communication, progress monitoring, and openness to revision form the pillars of a resilient leadership ideology. Remember, the essence lies not just in articulating your philosophy but embodying it in every leadership facet, forging a path of purpose and transformation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Developing a personal leadership philosophy is crucial as it provides a guiding framework for your leadership decisions. It helps align your actions with your values, sets clear goals, and fosters a consistent and authentic leadership approach.

Absolutely. A personal leadership philosophy is dynamic and can evolve based on experiences, outcomes, and the changing needs of your team and organization. Being open to revision ensures its continued relevance and effectiveness.

Leading by example establishes credibility and promotes a culture of trust and accountability within your team. Your actions speak louder than words, influencing the organizational ethos and setting standards for excellence.

Yes, transparent communication is essential. Clearly articulating your leadership philosophy ensures that your team understands your expectations, values, and overarching vision, fostering a unified and collaborative workplace.

Regularly evaluating progress involves reflective assessment. Consider achievements, challenges, and areas for refinement. This ongoing monitoring allows for an adaptive leadership approach based on real-time experiences.

Aligning your leadership ideology with organizational goals involves understanding the broader mission and values. Ensure that your ideology complements and contributes to these goals, creating synergy between your leadership approach and the organizational vision.

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27 Leadership Philosophy Examples: Comprehensive Guide!

Are you on the journey to becoming a more effective leader but not sure where to start? Discover the power of a well-defined leadership philosophy with our comprehensive guide, featuring 27 inspiring leadership philosophy examples.

Unlock the secrets to guiding your team with confidence, improving communication, and boosting overall performance by crafting a philosophy that resonates with your core values and leadership style.

Content Overview:

What is a leadership philosophy.

A leadership philosophy is a set of beliefs and principles that guide a leader’s actions, decisions, and interactions with others. It reflects how a leader views leadership, their role as a leader, and how they intend to lead others.

This philosophy is shaped by personal values, experiences, and the context in which leadership is exercised. Here are some key elements often found in a leadership philosophy:

• Core Values: These are the fundamental beliefs that guide a leader’s behavior and decision-making process. Values such as integrity, respect, and accountability are commonly emphasized in leadership philosophies.
• Vision and Purpose: A clear vision for where the leader wants to guide their team or organization, and the purpose behind their leadership. This includes long-term goals and the impact the leader aims to achieve.
• Leadership Style: This includes how a leader interacts with their team, make decisions, solve problems, and motivate and support their team members. Styles can range from authoritative to democratic, coaching, or transformational, depending on what the leader believes is most effective.
• Communication: How a leader plans to communicate with their team and stakeholders, including the level of openness, frequency, and methods of communication.
• Commitment to Growth: This covers both the leader’s personal growth and development, as well as the development of their team members. It includes fostering a culture of continuous learning, feedback, and improvement.
• Ethical Framework: How a leader addresses ethical dilemmas and makes decisions that align with both personal and organizational values.
• Approach to Challenges: How a leader plans to address obstacles and failures, including resilience, adaptability, and the strategy for problem-solving and conflict resolution.

Having a clear leadership philosophy is important because it helps leaders navigate complex situations, provides a consistent framework for making decisions, and helps inspire and guide others.

It also facilitates transparency and builds trust within teams, as team members understand the rationale behind their leader’s actions and decisions.

Why is a Leadership Philosophy Important?

A leadership philosophy is important for several compelling reasons, as it serves as a foundational guide that shapes the way leaders approach their roles, interact with teams, and influence their organizations. Here are key reasons why developing and maintaining a clear leadership philosophy is critical:

• Provides Direction and Purpose: A leadership philosophy clarifies a leader’s goals, values, and priorities, providing a clear direction and purpose for their actions. This helps in guiding decision-making and setting a coherent path forward for the team or organization.
• Enhances Consistency: It promotes consistency in leadership behavior , ensuring that decisions and actions are aligned with the defined values and principles. This consistency is crucial for building trust and credibility among team members and stakeholders.
• Fosters Effective Communication: Articulating a leadership philosophy helps in establishing clear expectations and enhances communication between leaders and their teams. It makes it easier for team members to understand the leader’s vision, expectations, and reasons behind decisions, which can lead to more effective collaboration and team cohesion.
• Empowers Decision-Making: A well-defined leadership philosophy serves as a compass during challenging times, providing a framework for making tough decisions. Leaders can refer back to their core values and principles to navigate ethical dilemmas, conflicts, and complex situations with confidence.
• Promotes Self-Awareness and Personal Growth: The process of developing a leadership philosophy encourages leaders to reflect on their values, experiences, and the impact they wish to have. This reflection fosters self-awareness and personal growth, enabling leaders to evolve and adapt their leadership approach as needed.
• Builds Organizational Culture: Leadership philosophies play a significant role in shaping organizational culture by modeling behaviors, values, and norms that define the environment. A strong, positive leadership philosophy can inspire a culture of integrity, excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
• Inspires and Motivates Others: A compelling leadership philosophy can inspire and motivate team members by providing a sense of shared purpose and vision. When leaders effectively communicate their philosophy and live by it, they can engender loyalty, enthusiasm, and a high level of engagement among their teams.
• Attracts and Retains Talent: Leaders who clearly articulate their values and how they intend to lead are more likely to attract and retain employees who share similar values and are committed to the vision. This alignment can lead to higher job satisfaction, reduced turnover, and a stronger sense of belonging among team members.

A leadership philosophy is not just about guiding the leader’s own behavior; it’s also about creating an environment that enables others to thrive, fostering a culture of trust, accountability, and excellence, and ultimately contributing to the success of the organization.

What Are the Key Elements of a Leadership Philosophy?

The key elements of a leadership philosophy encapsulate the foundational beliefs, principles, and practices that guide a leader’s approach to leading others. These elements provide a framework for decision-making, interacting with team members, and setting the direction of an organization or team.

• Core Values: The fundamental beliefs that guide a leader’s actions and decisions. These could include integrity, honesty, respect, and commitment to excellence. Core values are the ethical compass that dictates how a leader behaves and makes choices.
• Vision and Mission: A clear articulation of the future the leader seeks to create (vision) and the purpose or reason for the leader’s and organization’s existence (mission). This provides direction and inspiration for the leader and their team.
• Leadership Style: The approach a leader takes in guiding, directing, decision-making, and motivating people. This could range from autocratic to democratic, transformational, servant leadership , or a combination of styles, tailored to the leader’s personality and the needs of the team.
• Communication Strategy: How a leader plans to communicate with their team and other stakeholders. This includes the methods of communication, the frequency, and the level of transparency. Effective communication is key to understanding, collaboration, and building trust.
• Expectations and Goals: Clear expectations for the team’s performance and behavior, along with specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. This helps in aligning the team’s efforts towards achieving the vision and mission.
• Development and Growth: Commitment to personal growth and the development of team members. This includes fostering a culture of continuous learning, encouraging feedback, and providing opportunities for skill enhancement and professional growth.
• Decision-Making Process: The method by which decisions are made, including the extent to which others are involved in the decision-making process. This element reflects a leader’s balance between autonomy and collaboration.
• Approach to Conflict and Challenges: Strategies for dealing with disagreements, obstacles, and failures. This includes how a leader plans to foster resilience, adaptability, and constructive problem-solving within their team.
• Ethical Considerations: How a leader addresses ethical dilemmas and ensures that actions and decisions align with both personal and organizational ethical standards. This involves promoting integrity, fairness, and accountability.
• Influence and Inspiration: The ways in which a leader intends to inspire, motivate, and positively influence their team members. This could involve leading by example, recognizing and celebrating achievements, and creating an environment where team members feel valued and empowered.

Developing a leadership philosophy requires introspection, clarity, and a deep understanding of one’s values, experiences, and the impact one wishes to have as a leader. It serves as a personal manifesto that guides a leader’s actions and interactions, helping them to lead with purpose, integrity, and effectiveness.

27 Leadership Philosophy Examples

Creating a leadership philosophy is deeply personal and varies widely depending on an individual’s values, beliefs, and experiences.

Below are 27 examples of leadership philosophies to inspire or serve as a foundation for developing your own. Each philosophy reflects different priorities and approaches to leadership.

• Servant Leadership: This philosophy emphasizes serving others as the primary goal of leadership. A Servant leader focuses on the growth and well-being of their team members and the communities to which they belong. They lead by example and prioritize the needs of their team above their own.
• Transformational Leadership: Leaders who adopt this philosophy aim to inspire and motivate their team members to exceed their own limitations and achieve extraordinary outcomes. They focus on creating a vision for the future, encouraging innovation, and fostering a culture of trust and respect.
• Authentic Leadership: Authentic leaders prioritize being genuine and transparent with their team members. They believe in leading with their true selves, acknowledging their vulnerabilities, and building genuine connections with those they lead.
• Ethical Leadership: This philosophy centers around leading with moral principles. Ethical leaders are committed to fairness, integrity, and doing what is right, even in the face of personal or professional challenges.
• Democratic Leadership: Leaders who practice this philosophy believe in making decisions through consensus. They value the input and insights of their team members, fostering an environment of collaboration and mutual respect.
• Autocratic Leadership: This traditional leadership style emphasizes command and control. Leaders make decisions unilaterally, prioritizing efficiency and order, often in environments where quick decision-making is critical.
• Participative Leadership: Similar to democratic leadership, participative leaders actively involve team members in the decision-making process. This approach is believed to increase engagement and foster a sense of ownership among team members.
• Situational Leadership: Leaders adopting this flexible philosophy adjust their style according to the situation and the development level of their team members. They are adept at recognizing what their team needs and adapting their approach accordingly.
• Visionary Leadership: Visionary leaders focus on setting a compelling future vision for their team or organization. They inspire and motivate their team to work towards this vision, driving innovation and change.
• Coaching Leadership: This philosophy is centered around developing team members’ abilities and helping them reach their full potential. Coaching leaders provide guidance, feedback, and support, fostering a culture of continuous learning.
• Inclusive Leadership: Inclusive leaders are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. They create environments where different perspectives are valued and everyone feels empowered to contribute their best work.
• Strategic Leadership: Leaders with this philosophy focus on long-term success, aligning resources, and strategic planning to navigate complex challenges and achieve organizational goals.
• Cross-Cultural Leadership: This leadership style emphasizes understanding and bridging cultural differences within global teams. Cross-cultural leaders foster an environment of respect and inclusivity, recognizing the strengths that diverse perspectives bring to the table.
• Resilient Leadership: Resilient leaders focus on developing the ability to withstand and bounce back from challenges and setbacks. They foster a culture of perseverance and adaptability within their teams.
• Inspirational Leadership: Leaders who embrace this philosophy aim to motivate and uplift their team members. They focus on creating a positive and energizing work environment, encouraging their team to achieve beyond what they thought possible.
• Collaborative Leadership: This philosophy prioritizes teamwork and partnership. Collaborative leaders break down silos and encourage cross-functional cooperation to solve complex problems and innovate.
• Hands-On Leadership: Hands-on leaders are deeply involved in the day-to-day operations and work closely with their team. They believe in leading by example and providing direct guidance and support.
• Hands-Off Leadership: In contrast, hands-off leaders trust their team members to work independently. They provide autonomy and freedom, stepping in to offer support and guidance as needed.
• Empowering Leadership: Empowering leaders focus on giving team members the resources, authority, and confidence to take initiative and make decisions. They believe in enabling others to grow and take on leadership roles themselves.
• Ethical Stewardship: Leaders who follow this philosophy are committed to making decisions that benefit all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the community. They prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term gains.
• Adaptive Leadership: Adaptive leaders are experts in navigating change and uncertainty. They encourage experimentation, learning from failures, and adapting strategies based on new insights.
• Charismatic Leadership: Charismatic leaders rely on their personal magnetism and communication skills to inspire and motivate others. They are often seen as visionary and capable of eliciting strong emotional commitment from their team.
• Pragmatic Leadership: Pragmatic leaders are focused on practical solutions and results. They are flexible in their approach and prioritize effectiveness and efficiency in achieving goals.
• Mindful Leadership: This philosophy emphasizes presence, awareness, and compassion in leadership. Mindful leaders are attuned to their own mental and emotional states and those of their team members, fostering a supportive and productive environment.
• Sustainable Leadership: Leaders adopting this philosophy focus on creating lasting and positive impacts on their organizations and the environment. They integrate social, economic, and environmental considerations into their decision-making processes.
• Pacesetting Leadership: Pacesetting leaders set high-performance standards and lead by example. They are driven and competitive, pushing their teams to achieve high levels of excellence.
• Value-Based Leadership: This philosophy is rooted in leading according to a set of core values. Value-based leaders are consistent, ethical, and transparent, with their actions always aligned with their stated values.

Each leadership philosophy has its strengths and may be more or less effective depending on the context, the leader’s personality, and the needs of the team or organization.

Reflecting on these examples can help you articulate your own leadership philosophy, considering what resonates most with your values and vision for leadership.

How to Write a Leadership Philosophy?

Writing a leadership philosophy is a reflective process that helps clarify your approach to leading others. It serves as a personal manifesto that guides your actions, decisions, and interactions with your team. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write a comprehensive leadership philosophy:

1. Reflect on Your Values and Beliefs

• Start by considering your core values and beliefs. What do you stand for? What principles are non-negotiable in your leadership practice?
• Reflect on your experiences, both positive and negative, that have shaped your views on leadership.

2. Identify Your Leadership Style

• Think about how you naturally interact with others. Are you more authoritative, participative, or a mix of different styles?
• Consider how your leadership style has evolved over time and what has influenced these changes.

3. Define Your Vision and Goals

• Articulate a clear vision for the future. What do you want to achieve as a leader? What impact do you want to have on your team and organization?
• Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals that align with your vision.

4. Determine Your Approach to People Management

• Consider how you will build relationships with your team members. How will you communicate, provide feedback, and handle conflicts?
• Think about how you plan to motivate and inspire your team to achieve their best work.

5. Plan for Growth and Development

• Reflect on how you intend to foster a culture of continuous learning and development, both for yourself and your team.
• Consider the strategies you will use to encourage innovation and adaptability.

6. Articulate Your Decision-Making Process

• Describe how you will make decisions. Will you involve your team in the decision-making process, or will you make decisions more autonomously?
• Consider how you will ensure that your decisions align with your values and the organization’s goals.

7. Address Ethical Considerations

• Think about how you will navigate ethical dilemmas and ensure that your leadership practices are aligned with ethical standards.
• Describe the measures you will take to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Writing Your Leadership Philosophy

Once you have reflected on these components, begin drafting your leadership philosophy. Keep it concise—aim for one to two pages. Start with an introduction that outlines your core values and beliefs. Then, elaborate on each of the areas mentioned above, providing specific examples when possible. Conclude with a summary of your leadership philosophy and its importance to your approach to leadership.

Tips for Writing Your Leadership Philosophy

• Be Authentic: Ensure your leadership philosophy genuinely reflects who you are as a leader. Avoid using clichés or ideals that sound good but don’t truly represent your values or style.
• Use Clear and Concise Language: Your leadership philosophy should be easy to understand. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences.
• Reflect Regularly: Your leadership philosophy is not set in stone. As you grow and gain more experience, revisit and revise your philosophy to reflect your evolving insights and priorities.

Your leadership philosophy is a living document that guides your actions and decisions. It communicates to others what they can expect from you as a leader and serves as a foundation for developing effective, inspiring, and ethical leadership practices.

In conclusion, developing a leadership philosophy is an essential step for any leader seeking to clarify their approach to guiding, motivating, and inspiring others.

By reflecting on your core values, leadership style, vision, and strategies for people management, you can craft a philosophy that not only guides your own actions but also fosters a positive and productive environment for your team.

This process not only aids in personal and professional growth but also enhances the overall effectiveness and cohesiveness of the team you lead.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you have a leadership philosophy that guides your actions? How has it evolved over time, and what impact has it had on your leadership style and your team? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below.

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Leadership Philosophy Examples And Detailed Guide To Write Your Own

A philosophy of leadership is a methodical approach to managing others. As a guiding principle for use as a guide, while leading a team, leaders frequently write philosophies. Generally, leadership philosophies include the following components:

• Guiding principles

Depending on the objectives and requirements of the leader, a leadership philosophy’s structure can vary significantly. Statements can range in length from a single sentence to a full page or more. Any length or structure is acceptable for a leadership philosophy because they are highly personalized documents.

Table of Contents

What Is A Leadership Philosophy?

Your leadership philosophy should be in writing so that you can refer to it whenever you need to be reminded of your leadership objectives. Your leadership philosophy is a state of mind.

Your philosophy can serve as a constant reminder of what’s most crucial whenever you find yourself in a challenging situation.

Whether you are a manager of a team of 100 employees or a parent trying to guide your family toward a better future, you should do this.

Leaders can take many different forms, after all. You may be in charge of a team of volunteers. Alternatively, you could be a fitness instructor guiding your class through a challenging exercise.

No matter how big or small your role is as a leader, a leadership philosophy can guide your decision-making and serve as a reminder of your personal values.

8 Leadership Philosophies

Knowing your leadership philosophy is crucial because it affects how you interact with those who report to you. Are you ready to learn which leadership philosophies work best for you? The eight common leadership philosophies listed below each have advantages and disadvantages. Pick the one which suits your needs and personality:

1. Democratic Leadership Philosophy

A democratic leadership philosophy is a style of management that is based on public democracy; in this style, the team leader makes decisions after hearing from each team member. Each team member has an equal voice in the direction the project should take, even though the leader ultimately has the final say.

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2. Autocratic Leadership Philosophy

The antithesis of the democratic leadership philosophy is the autocratic leadership philosophy, in which the team members are not consulted when making decisions. Prior to a change in the project’s direction, employees are neither consulted nor taken into account; instead, they are expected to follow the leader’s decision.

3. Laissez-faire Leadership Philosophy

The French term “Laissez-faire” translates to “let them do”. Employers are fully trusted by leaders who adhere to the laissez-faire leadership philosophy, and they are given the power to make important decisions. The least intrusive type of leadership is this one. There are no significant rules set by leaders regarding deadlines or working hours.

4. Strategic Leadership Philosophy

Because it supports multiple employee types simultaneously, strategic leadership philosophy is a preferred leadership style in many businesses. The problem arises when leaders are unable to strike a balance between doing what is best for the business and encouraging everyone’s ideas.

5. Transformational Leadership Philosophy

The foundation of the transformational leadership philosophy is the constant prodding of employees to work outside of their comfort zones by leaders. Because it inspires workers to realize their potential, this style of leadership is highly valued by growth-oriented businesses. The company’s customs are constantly changing and getting better thanks to this philosophy.

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6. Transactional Leadership Philosophy

Nowadays, it’s fairly typical for leaders to adopt a transactional mindset. In this arrangement, managers reward staff members for the work that they have actually completed. Incentives are offered when employing such a philosophy to motivate individuals to quickly master the task. Roles and responsibilities for each employee are established with the aid of the transactional philosophy.

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7. Solution-based Leadership

Collectively focusing on the promising future is a key component of the solution-based leadership philosophy. This occurs when followers and leaders both put their energies and focus into finding and putting into practice solutions. Leaders in this style of leadership are problem-focused and draw attention to the appropriate solutions.

8. Learning Leadership

Leadership that prioritizes learning and teaching is referred to as “learning leadership philosophy.” They encourage a culture of lifelong learning, make decisions based on facts and evidence, and establish priorities. In order to promote continuous improvement, learning leadership fosters a learner-centered environment within an organization.

What Should A Leadership Philosophy Look Like?

Start by considering the personal qualities that are most important to you when creating your leadership philosophy. Here are a few examples:

• Authoritative
• Hard-working
• Collaborative
• Adventurous

While not exhaustive, this list should help you get a sense of the principles and qualities you can incorporate into your leadership philosophy. You may want to instill these values in your team as well as your own personal ones.

Write about each of the four to five values that, in your opinion, best describe who you are as a person. Include an explanation of how you hope those values will affect or guide your team. Then go one step further.

If your team adopted those values as well, describe how it would function or what the outcome would be.

Would your sales staff smash all previous records? Would participants in your fitness class return each week for more? Would your children begin to exhibit traits like kindness and bravery in their daily lives?

Your ultimate goals will become clear once you have the answers to these questions. Then, when you’re having a difficult day or dealing with a personnel issue, you read over your leadership philosophy to remind yourself of the ultimate objectives.

Leadership Philosophy Template

Here is a model that you can adapt to develop your own leadership ethos. If you will, it’s similar to a generator for leadership philosophies. Simply take your time filling in the blanks.

I define leadership as _______, _______, and _______. To be an effective leader, I think I should _______, _______, and ________. To _______, ________, and _______, I will motivate my team. I value ______, _______, and _________ in myself and in my team members. I won’t put up with myself or those I lead doing _________. As a leader, my overarching objective is __________.

You should not be able to finish this in ten minutes, so bear that in mind. Spend as much time as necessary considering your team’s values in order for it to be truly effective. If it will be more helpful, you can even use bullet points.

Actually, there are no right or wrong ways to approach this. As was already stated, each person has a personal and distinctive leadership philosophy. So, record what you feel is right for you.

Leadership Philosophy Examples

Different leaders may have different philosophies of leadership. One must take the time to comprehend which kind of leadership style best suits them based on their requirements and personality. To better understand the differences, let’s examine some instances of various leadership philosophies.

1. Transformational leadership by example

Example of transformational leadership philosophy:

I think that in order to advance, change must be constant. I’ll help my team perform better by inspiring them and offering direction. By establishing attainable goals and assisting my team in overcoming obstacles, I hope to get the best performance out of them.

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2. Transactional philosophy of leadership examples

A philosophy based on incentives, transactional philosophy. Let us look at an example:

By rewarding my team for their hard work, I hope to inspire them. I think that rewarding my team with praise and letting them work independently is the best way to get them moving.

3. Strategic leadership philosophy statement

Here is an example of strategic leadership philosophy:

Everyone who is a part of my duty, in my opinion, has a specific task to complete. Setting objectives and deadlines in advance will help me maximize each person’s productivity. I’ll continue to prioritize important business requirements.

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4. Leadership personal statement examples

Here is a leading personal statement example:

Since I am adamant that honest feedback is one of the essential components of effective leadership, I will concentrate on listening to it and will urge my team to do the same. My staff has my complete support, and I will lead with integrity.

5. Real-life example of leadership

When Steve Jobs created the iPod and iPhone, which is a good real-world example. It is evidence of Apple and Steve Jobs’ genius. In this illustration, it is discussed how forward-thinking leaders can help businesses succeed by staying one step ahead of the curve.

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6. Leadership vision examples

Let us look at an example of a leadership vision statement:

I want to support the expansion and goals of my organization. The goal of my relationship-building with my team members is to inspire them to reach their full potential. In an effort to solve issues, I will make efforts.

7. Personal leadership philosophy sample

An example of personal leadership philosophy by a CEO:

I give my team members attainable objectives that can be measured. I look for ways to enhance workplace culture and foster a pleasant environment. Under my direction, communication, trust, and integrity have flourished. I disagree with disregarding obligations and one’s work.

8. Examples of leadership philosophy statements

Example depicting personal leadership philosophy:

Leadership to me is about commitment, bravery, and respect for all people. I have a responsibility to my team and organization as a leader. I need to communicate clearly, set an example for others to follow, and work hard.

9. Democratic leading examples

Example of Democratic leadership philosophy:

I’m going to share responsibility and listen to everyone on my team’s opinions. While implementing new policies, I will respect my team, pay attention to their opinions, and take them into account. I promise to act with consideration, kindness, and empathy.

10. Educational leadership philosophy examples

Example of Educational leadership philosophy:

I’ve committed myself to enhancing the educational opportunities for those who work for me. I think the only way to advance and raise team output is to constantly learn. I’ll work to establish a learning environment that encourages ongoing development.

11. Autocratic leadership practices examples

An example of autocratic leadership philosophy:

I feel most qualified to make decisions that will affect my entire team. I am capable of motivating the group and guiding them by example. I’ll lead my team by giving them instructions and delegating tasks so they can accomplish the company’s goals and objectives.

Why Is A Leadership Philosophy Important?

Having a leadership philosophy like this is important because it helps keep your values in perspective . People will respect you if you treat them with respect at home or at work. No matter how high you rise or how much power you ultimately wield, this will always be true.

A leadership philosophy also serves as a reminder of the behaviors you expect from your team members and yourself. As a result, you can use your leadership philosophy as a guide if one of your team members, who you may like personally, isn’t exhibiting a strong work ethic.

If you don’t tolerate laziness, as stated in your philosophy statement, you are free to correct behaviors without feeling bad about yourself or your leadership abilities. In essence, having that philosophy down in writing serves as a reminder that you must hold yourself to a high standard in order to motivate others to do the same.

It also serves as a reminder that if the team and you don’t embody certain values, you won’t be able to accomplish your objectives.

Writing Your Leadership Philosophy Statement

You ought to feel inspired to use concepts from each of these leadership philosophies and create your own alchemy now. Take these base metals and merge them into one leadership philosophy YOU can define. What would you call your leadership philosophies? Come up with some names.

Why did you arrive at your new leadership philosophy based on your personal experiences?

Leadership philosophies are very unique to you and tailored to your circumstances. Your leadership philosophies must accurately represent your true values and the circumstances of various employees.

You’ll have a much better idea of what inquiries you should make of yourself to create a philosophy that is true to your beliefs, though, by taking examples into consideration when writing your own leadership philosophy statement.

Popular Beliefs About Leadership

Popular beliefs about leadership that great leaders must adhere to:

• Vision – To help his or her followers understand why their efforts matter, a leader must articulate a purpose.
• Trust – People should be able to trust their leaders, so they must be fair and consistent.
• Integrity – A leader needs to take responsibility for their actions and shouldn’t be afraid to do so.
• Communication – People must be encouraged to express their ideas and opinions under strong leadership. They ought to have an equal chance to communicate.
• Responsibility – In order to have committed employees, leaders must be able to keep their promises.

Running a team, an organization, or a business effectively requires a solid leadership philosophy. When your leadership style is based on a solid set of values and principles, you’ll stay committed to your objectives and be more likely to regularly inspire and motivate your team members.

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Writing an Educational Leadership Philosophy Statement

Dr. natasha kenny, phd, & dr. carol berenson, phd, taylor institute for teaching and learning .

December 2016

We often support instructors in creating teaching philosophy statements, and various resources exist to support their development (e.g. Chism, 1998; Kenny, Jeffs, and Berenson, 2015; Schonwetter et al., 2002).  However, few resources are available to help faculty in preparing educational leadership philosophy statements.

We recently created a resource to help faculty preparing educational leadership philosophy statements as part of their nomination dossiers for institutional and national awards, such as the University of Calgary Teaching Award for Educational Leadership and the  3M National Teaching Fellowship .

Similar in format to a teaching philosophy statement, an educational leadership philosophy statement “clearly communicate[s] what our beliefs are about educational leadership, why we hold these beliefs and how we translate our beliefs into practice” (Berenson and Kenny, 2015).  An example structure for an educational leadership philosophy statement and guiding questions to help those preparing a statement are presented in Table 1 below.  While every statement will uniquely articulate the educational leadership beliefs and practices of each author, these questions provide a foundational guide for helping to support faculty in creating an educational leadership philosophy statement.

Dr. Ken MacMillan, 3M National Teaching Fellow, and the 2015 recipient of the UCalgary Award for Educational Leadership has shared an  example educational leadership philosophy statement here .

Philosophy statement components

Developing an educational leadership philosophy statement provides an opportunity for individuals to reflect on their own leadership beliefs and activities. This process also makes visible the many ways in which leadership is formally and informally enacted by individuals on our campus.

Beliefs about educational leadership

What are my beliefs about educational leadership in post-secondary education? Why do I hold these beliefs?   Who or what has most informed my leadership approaches? How have my beliefs been influenced by my experiences postsecondary educator and/or scholarly literature related to leadership? What difference do I hope to make as a leader? What does it mean to be a good leader in a post-secondary context?

Educational leadership activities and initiatives

What educational leadership activities, practices and initiatives have I implemented? How do these align with my beliefs? When have I felt most engaged and affirmed as an educational leader? What are my key strengths and skills as a leader? What am I most proud of? What sets me apart? What are some of my accomplishments as a post-secondary leader?

Impact and influence

What difference have I made, and how do I know? What has been the impact and influence of my educational leadership (on me, on students, on colleagues, on my department, on my faculty, on the institution and beyond)? What have others learned from my leadership approaches?

Future aspirations

How will I continue to develop, grow, and improve as a leader? What interests me most about teaching and learning in post-secondary education? What changes do I most hope to see and inspire? What are my future goals and aspirations as a leader in post-secondary education?

Guiding questions adapted from: Kearns, K.D. & Sullivan, C.S. (2011); Kenny, Jeffs & Berenson (2015); Stavros & Hinrichs (2011); Schonwetter et al. (2002); Seldin, P., Miller, J. E., & Seldin, C. A. (2010).

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Berenson, C. & Kenny, N.A. (2016).  Preparing an Educational Leadership Philosophy Statement . Calgary, AB: Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning.

Chism, Nancy. (1998). Developing a philosophy of teaching statement.  Essays on Teaching Excellence: Toward the Best in the Academy, 9,  1-3.  Retrieved from http://podnetwork.org/content/uploads/V9-N3-Chism.pdf

Kearns, K.D. and Sullivan, C.S. (2011). Resources and practices to help graduate students and postdoctoral fellows write statements of teaching philosophy.  Advances in Physiology Education , 35, 136-145.

Kenny, N.A., Jeffs, C., & Berenson, C. (2015).  Preparing a Teaching Philosophy Statement.  Calgary, AB: Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning.

Schonwetter, D.J., Sokal, L., Friesen, M., & Taylor, L.K. (2002). Teaching philosophies reconsidered: A conceptual model for the development and evaluation of teaching philosophy statements.  International Journal for Academic Development,  7(1), 83-97

Seldin, P., Miller, J. E., & Seldin, C. A. (2010). The teaching portfolio: A practical guide to improved performance and promotion/tenure decisions. John Wiley & Sons.

Stavros, Jacqueline M, & Hinrichs, Gina. (2011). The Thin Book Of SOAR: Building Strengths-Based Strategy: Thin Book Publishing.