Traditionally, management theories have taken
a psychological approach to leadership, often
assuming that it is a personality trait located within
an individual. In contrast, the discursive approach to
leadership, which is the focus of this book, assumes
that leadership is created through communication
practices.
As a leader, this book will provide you with an in-depth
look at an emerging approach to the study of
business leadership that focuses on language as a
vehicle for communicating leadership. The authors
explore a new definition of leadership as the expression
of ideas in talk or in action that are recognized
by others as capable of progressing tasks or solving
problems. The practical implication of this view of
leadership suggests that leaders must constantly enact
and communicate their relationship to their followers
in such a way as to be recognized by them as
a leader. Inside, you and future leaders will learn how
to approach leadership more effectively as a communication
practice that involves and depends upon the
response of potential followers.