There is huge amount of research into leadership which has identified any number of leadership theories, including: Transformational, Bureaucratic, Transactional, Servant, Autocratic and Democratic leadership to name but a few. There are also many leadership styles, including Coercive, Authoritative, Affiliative and Coaching amongst others. However, before thinking about how we are to lead those we are responsible for, we must first understand and lead the most important person of all, ourselves. If we cannot lead ourselves, we certainly won’t be prepared to understand and effectively lead others.. This is because we can’t give what we don’t have. It is all about personal leadership. Whilst we may be granted authority over others that does not make one a leader. Leadership must be earned and deserved. We must lead by example, walk the talk, communicate motivate and even inspire others. Without followers, none of the people we refer to as leaders would be referred to as such. Leadership is very much about the ability to gain trust, build rapport and maintain a relationship with those that you lead.
