Leadership in an Era of Change

Leadership is about change. In unstable times, effective leaders must not only be able to cope with the environment, they must also be able to shape it. Change leadership embodies four essential characteristics. It anticipates; it is visionary and forward-looking and avoids reactionary thinking. It constantly analyzes both the internal and external environment to gather reliable data upon which to make decisions. Change leadership acts with a vision and a plan; the action is collaborative and inclusive, building on the strengths of team members and stakeholders. Finally, it affirms, giving attention to reflection, review, and sustaining change.