is your boss stupid? idiot? or just an Ass?
The definition of a leader, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is straightforward: ‘A person who has commanding authority and influence’. The Business Dictionary is more specific, it includes establishing and realising a clear vision, coordinating conflicting interests and thinking and acting creatively in difficult situations. Nowhere does it say exactly how a leader is supposed to influence and direct. Historically, leaders have relied on established hierarchical structures. Simply put, the higher up they were, the more authority they had, the more they could do what they wanted. Yes, there were advisors, but if they displeased their leader, they ran the risk of being exiled or even put to death. The system was inherently patriarchic, favouring men of high social status and leaving those who didn’t have the required bloodlines at the bottom of the ladder. Except for a handful of exceptions, women were excluded from official leadership altogether. Things didn’t change