Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/268542 
Year of Publication: 
2003
Citation: 
[Journal:] T+D - Training and development [ISSN:] 1055-9760 [Volume:] 57 [Issue:] 3 [Publisher:] Association for Talent Development [Place:] Alexandria, VA, US [Year:] 2003 [Pages:] 1-8
Publisher: 
Association for Talent Development, Alexandria, VA, US
Abstract: 
Why do we idolize our leaders? Maybe it is because our culture still admires individualism, or maybe because we fear what is to come. But either way, says Raelin, we must develop a shared management style in order to brave the future. Following someone strictly for inspirational vision can be a waste of time and even dangerous, particularly when collaboration can yield better results. Charismatic leaders are often not as good in some situations as they are hoped or expected to be. In fact, many tend to be narcissistic, egocentric, or hard-driving. Followers often choose such "hero leaders" for psychological comfort during times of distress, rather than their ability to manage conflict. They see this person as a savior and the only person able to lead them through the trouble. The problem is, Raelin argues, that we often overemphasize a leader's powers and expect one person to make all of the decisions, rarely considering anyone else's contributions. What's more effective is a collaborative leadership, in which anyone can assume power when needed. That way, resolutions are based on merit rather than on blind faith.
Subjects: 
Charisma
Charismatic leadership
Collaboration
Collaborative leadership
Romanticism
Heroes
JEL: 
I20
J24
L20
M10
M12
M14
M50
M53
O15
O31
Document Type: 
Article
Document Version: 
Accepted Manuscript (Postprint)
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