CLASSMATE 1
To be a successful global leader, certain characteristics are associated with the individual. However, according to Lustig & Koester (2003), there are no group of characteristics that will ensure a leader will be successful in every intercultural situation or relationship. Each situation or approach can require a different set of skills or characteristics. Some characteristics that are usually aligned with global leadership are, having the curiosity, openness, flexibility, and not being judgmental of other cultures, languages, and way of living. These characteristics are associated with the managerial competence of global leaders (Mendenhall et al, 2018). Being open to and accepting of different cultures is very important to effectively lead individuals across different cultures around the world.
Some common characteristics were found amongst three global leaders that have achieved much success. These three leaders are Richard Branson, David Simon, and Percy Barnevik, and they have shown to effectively communicate a vision, made themselves available to their followers and showed them empathy, while also empowering followers and sharing information with them. These global leaders developed a culture within the organization that was based on communication, shared values, commitment, good corporate citizenship, and innovation (Mendenhall et al, 2018).
Characteristics that are associated with global leaders are, humility, integrity, emotional awareness, resilience, psychological maturity, morality, and have the curiosity to learn (Mendenhall et al, 2018). From these characteristics, I would consider integrity and humility as most relevant for leading at a global level. Integrity is crucial for global leaders to earn the respect and trust of the people within the company and the people they serve. Leading with integrity helps leaders influence and change minds of followers of diverse backgrounds (Mendenhall et al, 2018). Humility is also important because it allows leaders to be open to experience and learn from different cultures. Humility allows leaders to learn from others and become the student of someone who may have more knowledge and experience in a particular area. A leader must be humble enough to recognize their own limitations and expertise in a certain area, and surround themselves with individuals who will address those weaknesses. Global leaders do not have all the answers and are not all knowing. Global leaders must be willing to learn from everyone.
Mendenhall, M. E., Osland, J. S., Bird, A., Oddou, G. R., Maznevzki, M. L., Stevens, M. J., & Stahl, G. K. (Eds.). (2018). Global leadership: Research, practice, and development (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Routledge.
CLASS MATE 2
The two key traits I believe are most relevant for leading at the global level are cultural leadership and experimental learning. Combining these two traits of cultural leadership and experimental learning can produce a powerful set of skills for global leaders. By possessing cultural leadership, leaders can understand and navigate diverse cultural norms and build strong relationships with teams and stakeholders from different backgrounds. Additionally, experimental learning can help leaders to continuously adapt to changing circumstances, solve complex problems, and drive innovation within their organizations.
Leaders who possess both traits are better equipped to make informed decisions, take risks, learn from failures, and continuously improve their skills and knowledge in diverse and complex global environments. They are able to identify emerging trends, develop innovative solutions, and build strong relationships with their teams and stakeholders from different cultural backgrounds. This combination of skills can be especially valuable for global leaders who operate in rapidly changing and dynamic environments, where cultural awareness and adaptability are crucial for success.
Mendenhall, M. E., Osland, J., Bird, A., Oddou, G., Stevens, M. J., Maznevski, M. L., & Stahl Günter K. (2018). Global leadership: Research, practice, and development (3rd ed.). Routledge, Taylor et Francis Group.
