Strategic Leadership
Strategic leadership is not a term that everyone understands. In this exercise, you are required to
discover, document, and compare and contrast three (3) definitions of leadership from
three (3) unique scholarly sources
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Strategic Leadership
Definition from Source One
According to Rowe (2001), strategic leadership is the capacity to anticipate, envision, maintain flexibility, and empower others to create strategic change. This definition highlights foresight and adaptability as essential. Leaders do not only manage daily operations but also prepare the organization for the future. Rowe emphasizes empowerment, showing that leadership involves motivating others to embrace change. This perspective makes strategic leadership proactive and future-oriented.
Definition from Source Two
Boal and Hooijberg (2000) define strategic leadership as the ability to influence others in an organization to make day-to-day decisions that enhance long-term viability while maintaining short-term stability. This definition blends immediate management with sustainability. Leaders ensure current decisions do not compromise future goals. The focus is on balance, making it practical in complex environments. It stresses how leaders shape both present operations and future direction simultaneously.
Definition from Source Three
Hitt, Ireland, and Hoskisson (2017) describe strategic leadership as the ability to manage an organization’s resources while maintaining a vision that secures competitiveness in a dynamic environment. This definition stresses competitiveness and vision. Leaders must ensure resources are used effectively to sustain growth. It also underscores adaptability to environmental change. This perspective positions strategic leadership as a tool for survival and long-term performance in uncertain conditions.
Comparison and Contrast
All three definitions emphasize vision, adaptability, and influence. Rowe highlights empowerment and anticipation, while Boal and Hooijberg stress balancing short-term and long-term needs. Hitt et al. focus on resource management and competitiveness. Together, these views show that strategic leadership is multidimensional. It requires vision, empowerment, adaptability, and practical balance. Leaders who integrate all these elements guide their organizations toward lasting success.
