This essay consists of a comparative study between two leaders. In analyzing the effectiveness of these two leaders, Steve Jobs: The co-founder and CEO of Apple Computer and Barack Obama: The 44th President of the United States of America, we begin by examining the effect of power and Influence as a contribution to leadership development. We will also indulge in evaluating the traits, history, personality, and values of each leader, to successfully prove which of the two leaders stated above is more effective and why.
In this study it will become clear that there are numerous paths to effective leadership. The outcome reinforces the notion that leadership is not solely about position or power; it is about giving power and exercising the unselfish act of serving others. The ability to inspire or influence others toward particular goal/goals and get results are a few prerequisites for being an effective leader. It is of exceptional importance, to encourage effective and competent leaders within our society, as it undoubtedly impacts schools, churches, organizations and homes.
Introduction.
Good leaders are those who build teams and get results across a variety of situations (Hughes, Ginnett and Curphy, 2011). The work of an effective leader is never complete, it is an on-going task that every leader must endure in order to develop holistically and create a strong element for success. Henry Ford stated "Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young".
E.M.Kelly articulates, "Remember the difference between a boss and a leader: a boss says, "GO!" – a leader says, "Let's go!" In my quest to thoroughly understand leadership, a distinctive comparison must be made between leadership and management.
- Managers administer; leaders innovate.
- Managers maintain; Leaders develop.