Lessons in IT Transformation: Technology Expert to Business Leader

Leadership Is a Responsibility, Not a Privilege

Too many people feel that having a position of leadership and authority is their God-given right. They feel superior to those in their employ or at so-called lower levels in the organization. All too often, I have seen a certain level of arrogance and entitlement exhibited by people in leadership positions.

Ask anyone who has ever played the quarterback position in football who the five most important people in the world are to him, and he will tell you it is the offensive line. These are athletes who don't get anywhere near as much of the publicity, credit, or salary that the quarterback does. However, watch a left guard miss a block and you will see just how successful the quarterback is while laying on his back with a 300-pound linebacker on top of him!

Leadership is not a privilege. It is a responsibility. Leaders are accountable for the success and livelihoods of dozens, hundreds, or thousands of people. They should always remember this fact and never act in a cavalier fashion. The decisions they make, the actions they take, and how they carry themselves impact a large and diverse community. They should be humble in their demeanor and focused on serving their constituents, not being the big shot on campus.