School of Social and Political Science

Description

Whether we are thrust unwillingly into leadership roles or accept the responsibility for leading a project or team, leadership is one of the most discussed but misunderstood processes in our many and complex social interactions. You may be asked to manage a busy hospital ward without warning as other team members become ill or take time off with stress. You may be the one who needs to take charge of a failing group presentation. You may even be the one who has to persuade others to organise when confronting a social or environmental injustice. Leadership rarely exists in a vacuum and presents us with many moral and operational decisions.

In this short two-hour workshop we will explore what it means to learn to lead and also when to follow someone else’s lead. We will explore modern concepts of leadership based on respect and fairness to all. Other concepts we will discuss are:

• What is the nature of leadership in modern organisations?
• What does leadership look like in smaller groups and teams?
• Can you ever be the perfect leader or manager?
• What do others look for in a leader?
• Do people like being told what to do?
• What is the difference between leading and misleading?
• When to share, when to follow and when to take charge
• How to lead when you don’t want to, but need to
• How to follow without losing your sense of agency and engagement
• How to understand the effects of confidence and charisma…and when to be wary of them

There will be group activities and case studies exploring real small business, NGO, health and other organisations and movements. Leadership is a word packed full of meaning but in this workshop we will try and pick it apart to make it meaningful to your circumstances now and in the future. We can all lead and we can all be active and engaged followers. Leadership is based on relationships and good leadership strengthens positive and respectful interactions to allow everyone to grow into their roles and to bond as a team.

Please note: This session will be facilitated online via Zoom. Joining link will be sent out via email closer to the date.

Facilitated by Iain Davidson