CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
In this fast-paced global environment of the twenty-first century, the need for effective leaders has never been greater. There is no doubt we are experiencing a leadership deficit throughout our society—in corporations, governments, and communities. Almost daily we are bombarded by articles in newspapers, professional publications, blogs, and other various media bemoaning the lack of qualified leaders to meet the challenges of a diverse workforce, global competition, and an uncertain economy. As a result, organizations are experiencing increased pressure to develop their leaders from within.
The first step in leadership development is to identify organization-specific leadership competencies and characteristics. The ...