What Is Organizational Leadership?

Organizational leadership is exactly what it sounds like. This type of leader directs and coordinates individuals within an organization in order to reach goals and/or objectives. Organizational leadership is commonly the next step for anyone looking to move up to a higher tier of management.

Organizational Leadership Defined

Essentially, organizational leadership is a multi-faceted task, which requires experience with time management, planning and understanding the company as a whole. Ironically, many companies refrain from using the title of “organizational leader” for various reasons.

What Does An Organizational Leader Do?

These jobs are undoubtedly impacted by the company one works for. Oftentimes, organizational leaders are instead given the title of “high potential” employees (HiPos). As these individuals climb the ranks within a company or nonprofit, they will enter organizational leadership roles with director-level titles attached to them. These titles typically include chief financial officer (CFO), dean, general counsel or provost.

The actual day-to-day tasks and responsibilities of an organizational leader will include motivating and managing a team, using a problem-solving mindset in order to address any issues that may come about. Setting team goals/objectives and coordinating with other departments are also part of the job.

The importance of organizational leaders cannot be understated. These leaders are responsible for facilitating teamwork, setting goals and promoting cooperation by making the most of the talent within the company.

Examples Of Organizational Leadership

Most applications of organizational leadership aren’t found within that specific job title, but in other titles throughout the workplace. These types of jobs can often be found in nonprofits, health care, private companies and government agencies.

One example of organizational leadership is managing a team project on how a company can improve its search engine optimization (SEO) or presence on the web. In this scenario, a leader can create a plan to achieve the company’s ultimate goals.

Important organizational leadership traits include:

Problem-solving skills.
Goal-oriented.
Creativity.
Communication skills.
Precise decision-making skills.

Why Is Organizational Leadership Important?

With innovation and communication happening at record speeds nowadays, management can no longer implement the status quo. Organizational leadership is a necessity at every level. This leadership style can adapt and change traditional methods to meet today’s fast-paced workplace.

Organizational Leadership Vs Traditional Management

Organizational leadership will encompass a broader scope of responsibility than most traditional management styles. These leaders must communicate both the mission and the vision. Traditional management, meanwhile, only fulfills part of that overall vision of a company. A manager’s objective is to simply relay leadership’s directions and assign tasks.