Christian Leadership Alliance
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Minorities in Executive Leadership
Understanding Where the Race is Headed
As more minorities move into leadership positions organizations are able to draw on a larger pool of talent when addressing problems such as shrinking budgets, corporate downsizing, membership renewal and the challenge of globalization. Uncovering strategies for encouraging greater participation of minorities begins with a mapping of opportunities and challenges.
OPPORTUNITIES
A Broader Understanding
A good place to begin is perhaps with the obvious recognition that all minorities are not the same. This is an important point to bear in mind as we go in search of new leadership pathways. Rejecting a "one-size-fits all" approach denotes appreciation of the breadth of value found in diversity.
Added Value
Minorities bring a depth to leadership that transcends narrowly circumscribed cultural categories. New and subtle layers of knowledge, experience and meaning combined with concrete skills in a variety of technical, administrative and service disciplines add incredible value to any leadership team. The scale of the problems now visible on the horizon requires organizations to put their best foot forward. Making the most of different ways of seeing and leading is also an exciting synergistic proposition.
Making the most of learning opportunities
Leadership renewal implies motion. A good deal of the traction necessary for effective leadership will come from investments in training and human resource development. While a majority of entrants to leadership positions are already qualified by their credentials, experience and heart commitments, there is always room for improvement. Every challenge becomes a unique learning opportunity. The sometimes dull routine associated with chairing meetings, problem solving, financial management and strategic planning are easily turned to training advantage. What is good for the individual can also benefit the wider community. As role models minorities increase the multiplier effect of training and other resource development initiatives.
Builders for eternity
A commitment to learning has produced professionally minded leaders. Increasingly, the language of leadership seems to reflect measurement imperatives. Buried beneath a pile of assessment charts and "hard" measures it can take great effort to recapture the meaning of mission statements and translate value propositions into service delivery. Minorities have a vital role to play in this recovery effort. What is begun on earth in our boardrooms is useful preparation for Kingdom living. Even though organizations are more likely these days to speak of cultural reshaping, organizational restructuring, or the realignment of structure with strategy, what is really at stake is the quality of their Christian commitment. In these turbulent times, the captivating question could be: Who is willing to lead like Jesus? An affirmative response is the message of Blanchard and Hodges in their Lead like Jesus: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time.
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